At the time, I think I was using a Lehmann Black Cube 2 for an external phono stage, which for ~1000 bucks is a fantastic unit. I only did a brief comparison with the built in Halo phono stage, but recall greater detail and drive with the Lehmann, plus it had more cartridge loading options. For tubes, my setup is listed in my profile, but I've gone to separates. All of this is much more costly than a single integrated amp, but I just wasn't fully satisfied with an integrated, just had the itch for more. : )
My overall setup-- Zestos Andros Deluxe 2 phono (Tesla E83CC , Rogue RP7 (with Amperex 7316 as main tubes), Rogue Stereo 100 (currently have red tip RCA black plates 12AX7 as gain tubes, Brimar long black plates as driver tubes. Tubes to my ears just give you better treble resolution and decay, and a smoother, but more detailed midrange. My DAC is a fine sounding RME-ADI-2. For the DAC I did side by sides with the Halo's built in DAC, which sounded SLIGHTLY drier and less fleshed out than using the RME, but honestly the Halo's DAC is more than competent.
Anyway, I think you would be very sonically satisfied with the Halo Integrated. One can even get used models for good prices. Oh, one other tidbit is that the Halo Int does HT bypass, the NAD 388 did not. I was using the Halo in a combo HT setup, so having HT bypass was important.
