Where to insert tubes while running a Luxman SS integrated


I've recently upgraded my integrated amplifier from a Cambridge CXA81 to a Luxman l-507uxii.  The Cambridge is definitely not bad for its price, but the Luxman is a different animal and is making me want to upgrade everything else in my system.  Which brings me to my point of discussion: I'd like to insert tubes somewhere in my system to get some additional warmth and a more holographic soundstage.  Would adding a tube preamp and running the Luxman as only a power amp be best to do this, or would it be better to get a tube dac for my digital, and separately, a tube phono stage for my vinyl?

syr1990

My L-505uxii with a Herron 360 pre was a surprisingly stark match.  A lot of the Luxman magic seems to be in the pre.  I suggest try before you buy.

@yogiboy 's comment is salient in that it raises the question of which source might be prioritized...

turntable and digital front ends... each leg can be injected with some tube goodness and magic... or it can be done at the linestage (the junction point)

problem with the latter is that the op has said he wants to use his luxman, which is an integrated amp...

@jjss49 I would probably prioritize digital at this stage as I think my vinyl rig sounds way better and less harsh in the treble than the node’s internal dac. @yogiboy budget for a tube phono would probably be around 2.5k new or used. Same budget for the dac.