Jafox - a tubed DAC is not the only option to achieving analog sound from CD playback. Non-os DACs, tubed or not, accomplish this as well, and in many cases for a lot less money.
As for the other recommendations, I would say the preamp will have the most impact. A used Joule Electra LA-100 MkIII would do, or perhaps something from the Cary/AES line.
I probably can't help much on the line conditioner question, although if you find a used Running Springs Haley I'd grab it.
As for the other recommendations, I would say the preamp will have the most impact. A used Joule Electra LA-100 MkIII would do, or perhaps something from the Cary/AES line.
I probably can't help much on the line conditioner question, although if you find a used Running Springs Haley I'd grab it.