beginner seperate system

i think Im good with my nad amps bridged for ss...the website says over 1200 watts bridged....https://nadelectronics.com/product/c-275bee-stereo-power-amplifier/
but I do want to try tubes.  i see some great suggestions, just wrestling with my budget.  I dont know/understand alot of the terminology or names in tubes...so Im googling all the suggestions.  I appreciate them as I am learning as I go.  all good stuff.

If you want to experiment with tubes using your current system — as suggested by many above— you will get a good taste with a tube preamp. Depending on how much you want to spend, three good choices to purchase NEW would be the Schiit Freya ($700), Brown Audio SP-1B ($1150, which includes an excellent moving magnet phonostage), and the Atma-sphere UV-1 ($1900). All American made, and well reviewed. Based on your investiture in the Aria 948, I would probably lean towards the Atma-sphere UV-1, and give thought later perhaps to a different solid state amp. If you are willing to consider used gear, would recommend looking at Audio Research offerings on Audiogon. 

One last thought. I myself have been looking at a tube preamp for my second system in my den ... and while a custom tube preamp from Don Sachs has been in my eyesights, I’m a little concerned about the longevity of a boutique company.  How long will he be around to service it if something goes wrong? Not to hijack the thread, but does anyone else have this concern?

Hi Austin_Jeff,

There are a lot of great suggestions here. IMHO If looking for the best sound for the budget you have - with the equipment you have... 

I would take Wolf_Garcia's suggestion and hook up the Schitt Freya to your existing NAD 275bee . Freya is by far the best bang for you buck as it has several options and respectable specs.  As you get comfortable with the set up you can roll NOS tubes and get a real sense of the tube feel.  

The least expensive and best way to maximize your investment in the Focal Aria 948s  is to take Larry5729's suggestion on upgrading your subs to the REL S3. 

REL is known for their  quick, seamless ,musical sub bass system with the Neutrik SpeakOn connectors. However Its only worth the investment with the connectors. I believe Analysis Plus makes The REL Cables on request. - if you decide to go this route request bananas connectors for the binding posts on the amp end. It will be easier to hook up.  

Schitt Audio - $699
http://www.schiit.com/products/freya

REL - $2,400
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis99dcj-rel-acoustics-s-3-pair-available-subwoofers

REL Cables - $ 240/$500 
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis990j9-signal-cable-inc-double-run-spk-rel-speakon-cable-subwoof...

https://www.analysis-plus.com/pro-audio/#custom_built_cables

With about $1,500 to spare I would invest in a couple to decent power chords to maximize the performance of the NAD 275bee and Schitt Freya

I think you will be extremely pleased with the results.

What ever you decide, enjoy!

May I suggest considering the Rogue Sphinx or Pharaoh. Both integrated with tube pre , phono stage , headphone jack and remote control . Needs 1 quality power cord and some Telefunkens to replace the stock tubes . Plenty of quiet , clean solid state power to handle the low impedance swings and voltage requirements . A quality integrated will also save you money on multiple power cords and Interconnects. Also look at Khartgo products . Both of these brands are American made with great support and resale value . Happy Listening , Mike.