Tube Sound With Equalization?

With my limited experience, I agree with zlone about decay and equalization. For perhaps some tube dimensionality within and between your Benchmark system I’d be curious how something like a Modwright Analog Bridge would sound. I’ve never heard myself, but I’m intrigued. 
 

For tube equalization, the Decware ZRock3 seemed to add a slight increase in dimensionality and space, while allowing a somewhat broad adjustment to the lower end. I think it would be a stretch for me to say that this perceived dimensionality also included decay, though. Unsure if I would have explored this option if I had a tube preamp tbh.

" @zlone ...owned the Benchmark LA4 and I really liked it, but it is neutral, bordering on sterile."

"@toro3 ...some tube dimensionality within and between your Benchmark system I’d be curious how something like a Modwright Analog Bridge would sound."

Thus potentially adding some good old ear pleasing distortion back in to the mix to make it sound less sterile and more engaging. Kinda helps to surface once again that perfect signal and response graphs, and best of class signal to noise ratios  aren’t everything when it gets down to actual listening enjoyment for some folks.

I agree with others, equalization will not help. It has to do with individual sounds across the audio spectrum... a function of the components themselves. Very discrete / detailed sounding gear truncates decay. Good tube equipment extends and articulates the notes in a very natural way. Benchmark is at the opposite end of the spectrum. Mac gear is very good in the midrange... but tends to lack detail... so, perhaps some combination of Benchmark / Mac would work. But in this case you would have equipment at opposite ends of the spectrum... working against each other. I’d have a listen to some Conrad Johnson, Audio Research, or VAC equipment. See if that is too far in the warm musical direction.

Well... I think it's worth having one, the Schiit Loki is often recommended.  Try a little boost on the right two dials.

You could try a tube buffer between your amp/preamp.

Don't know what's available now, but maybe look for a used iFi micro iTube2?

I wouldn't recommend the old Musical Fidelity unit (X10D I think), but the 2nd version of the iFi was well received and they pop up occasionally.

DeKay