@sls883 Thanks for following up.
The folks at LTA are correct with the Ray Reserve and the Gold Lion tubes being a step up, or three, over the stock tubes. The RR tubes were a huge upgrade and I was already pleased with the improved listening fun of the MicroZOTL Level 2 over the LA4 (which is a great SS amp). The Gold Lion tubes just added a bit of detail and a bit more 'smoothness' to the experience.
I asked LTA about the Ray Select tubes that are the same size as the Gold Lion. It sounds like the RS tubes MAY become an option at some point. I am tempted to get a pair, but will wait.
The next step on my audio journey is adding a Network Switch. I was considering an Innuos Phoenix NET, and during my research found the Network Acoustics Tempus. I reached out to them and asked what kind of improvements would my particular system experience. The response was the typical 'background blackness, detail, soundstage improvement, etc'. They did suggest I try something first to confirm the benefits of a network switch.
we recommend trying a d-link dgs 105 with an ifi power 5v psu.
It was an interesting suggestion since they suggested it would be around $70 US. It ended up costing just under $100, but still a lot less than a used Phoenix USB or used Tempus. I will be installing the switch this week.
The hobby is definitely fun, and not always uber expensive.