Who's to blame for the Grain??

I'll throw in my support for the pre. maybe even a properly impedance matched 10Kohm ALPS pot for $35 with SHORT interconnects.
No need to apologize for your system. Don't give in to the peer pressure of spending a lot of money for status. Buy because it sounds good to you. IMHO.

Agree with Gthirteen that the sound of the large Paradigms should not be taken as a stand-in for the sound of the small Paradigms. Were you actually able to listen to the 20's? Anyway, choosing your speakers first is the correct path in my opinion. Just take your time and audition things thoroughly, using YOUR music, and in more than one visit if possible. Be reasonably comprehensive as your situation allows, resisting the impulse to fall in love at first listen. Also, keep in mind the entire chain of gear you're hearing when you audition a speaker...

Buy a tube integrated amplifier ,then upgrade your source, then your speakers

Thought you wanted less grain ,there speakers might impress in the showroom but get them home ,they have no soul .Try a full range driver based speaker ,there are many ,like Cain & Cain there abby speak sells for $1500 ,That with a tube integrated amplifier like a antique sound labs or sofia electric.Even the best solid state has grain .And speakers with large crossover networks sap the soul out of the music.good luck with your search.!!

I agree onthe Tube integrated.
A Jolida that doesn't use el34 tubes will give you the bass (mostly) that you, no doubt, crave.

I've never owned Jolida, but their all tube amps are super for teh $$.
There's several on the goN right now.

What's up with you, Meech?
Let us know.