What to do: upgrade amp or buy pre-amp

First, I would consider a Ref 5se instead of a Ref 5. There is a big difference between the two. The Ref 5 is much closer to the Ref 3 then the Ref 5se. Even if it means having to wait a little while. The Ref 5se is worth it. I own one and it is magical. That is where I would start.

The Ref 210s are very similar to my Ref 110. They are very nice amps. But if it were me, I think I would consider a Ref 150. It can use either kt120 or kt150 tubes. And less tubes means less heat. The Ref 150 is optimized for kt120 not 6550 tubes and is a little better sounding amp. Unless you really feel you need the extra power.

You're talking about some very revealing components that are not cheap. At this level, system matching is everything. Have you tried any of these components in your system? ARC makes some good products, but results are not consistent.

My advice would be to get a preamp since you don't have one, and you'll have an easier time matching components to a system that has a preamp. Also, don't buy anything unless you can demo it first.

Ok guys. Sounds like preAmp first. Ill go get a listen to the 5se and perhaps a tubed McIntosh to compare.

Chenglo1 your WFS Dac has volume controllability, and is a perfect impedance match direct into your Levinson amp, and because the Rel is 150kohms input impedance this also can be driven via a Y connector from the WFS dac.

This setup should get you the most transparent sound possible, if you need to change the sound a bit just try different interconnects or speaker cable to achieve this.

Cheers George