what is it like to mix tube and solid..

I run a SS pre with a tube amp. This was my approach. I found a SS pre within my budget that sounded transparent to me. Then I played with different tube complements in my amp to achieve the tonal characteristics I wanted.

I have had much success (sound wise) using tube pre-amps with s.s. power amps. Combinations like the ARC LS-16 with the 100.2, or the CJ 17 with the 2250 or 2500 are good
current model choices, or various used combos. Much would
depend on your front-end and speakers,....but the tube pre
with high-current s.s. power..work well with loads that need plenty of current...ie: Maggies, Martin Logan..etc.

I used to drive my system with a Classe 300 amp with Jadis tube pre up front. The mix was unexpectedly successful. Great slam and speed with a bit of added imaging and airiness. A friend also enjoyed a CAT pre with a solid state amp ( don't recall mfg.). I do not believe combinations, of any sort, can be impugned without first listening. Some threads and reviews have dissuaded the mixing of interconnects, espousing one brand link the entire system. This may hold true with certain manufacturer cables within certain systems, but I have found nice synergy in combinations. Best to listen, then decide.

Another testimonial for the "tube on top" configuration: VTL into Bryston into Thiel. No complaints, except maybe from the neighbors.... Mix and match away, there's bound to be a combo out there that is right for you.

A tube pre on some solid state amps can really work. A friend from Peak Audio brought over a NEW Single ended triode preamp and stuck it on my simaudio 4070SE. We listened until it was midnight and time to shut it down.....I was very sorry to see that go and it lead me to a SLF1 but that is another story. My friend said to me later, that was a religious listening experience.....you could reach out and touch.....I do see why people can lose themselves in tubes...voices and timbres are so right....try a mix and see how you like it.....it might be the tonic. cheers, Bluenose