The future of preamps

A friend has this preamp and the MA-1 amplifier. I've also placed my SET amp in this system and with either amplifier it was clear this is an excellent component. Many good attributes, transparency, minimal coloration, open with exceptional dynamic energy and quite natural sound ( most important to me). Obviously you can learn more from Ralph than me.
Charles,

I haven't read all the responses but so far, preamp seem to be holding their own. I for one will always use a preamp. A tube preamp. Regardless of the amplifier being used, I think a preamp will not only provide better sonics but also serve other purposes as well.
It is true most digital gear has the 'drive' to eliminate a preamp but to me, I have yet to hear any source direct system that sounds as good as a preamp driven system. Almost everyone I know, whether in the business or just consumers, still run preamps in their system even if only a digital or server based front end. A good digital front end, DAC and tube preamp appears to be staying around for the foreseeable future.
I have been in this industry for almost twenty years and designing tube gear for 15 years so I have been exposed to countless system combinations.
Preamps, tube or SS, will be around for a long time.

Response34,
I wish you continued sucess with your Purity Audio components, people love your various models of Line stages.
Charles,

Active preamp or bust! It is key to a well put together system!

@ charles1dad, Thanks for your response, Hey, Did you hear tube magic when you listened to the m-1?, I ask this because, I have had 6h30 tubes before, LOL!, sounded to much like solid state than tube magic compaired to the 12au7 and 12ax7 tubes!, I like a little tubey sound, If a tube componet is so nuetral, whats the since in having the tube componet?, I would do solid state then.