Tubes or Solid State?

@soix thanks man, I followed the link you shared. I now know what the ZOTL means. Interesting piece of equipment I must say. A cheapskate like me just might lurk and by one used. I've seen the name but had no idea they were so highly regarded..

I suggest you try an ARC pre-amp.  If  you can't afford a new one, try a used one.  My SP6B is superb and will last a lifetime.  I got it used for under $800.00.

If you have a local dealer, see if he or she can help you demo something from ARC in your system. 

Remember, your ROOM is the most important variable in your system.  Your dealer may be able to help you with this as well.  If not, many on here can provide some advice.

Cheers!

@richopp we don't have an ARC dealer anywhere near me that I know of. New units are prohibitively expensive for me. So I'll keep looking for used units.
There's no hurry. One thing I have lots of is time.
Thanks

Schiit Freya + with 6SN7 tubes preamp.

dierksb

I don't pay for streaming, but I do like finding music on youtube and Pandora.

Happily someone here got me to use USB out of my computer into a simple Topping DAC, the sound quality, and stronger signal output make a big difference.