Solid state; when would you use tubes?

The right dealer can take you through this journey. They can set up a speaker system and then change out the electronic components one-by-one. In my case they went from an all solid state system to all tubes stepping through various combinations in between.

I now have an all tube system.

In my experience, the very best 2-channel systems have all tubes.

When I added a turntable, I got a tube phono preamp and have been very pleased with that addition

Just a quick addendum on the absurd notion of letting the more limited selections of speakers dictate the type of system you choose: I would no more let the fact that there are only a few types of performance tires available for my large dual-sport motorcycle deter me from my strong preference for that particular bike, as I would let limited speaker selection determine what type of audio system I choose. The fact is the tires made for my bike work extraordinarily well since they are designed specifically for it and the applications it is used for, as many of the speakers (and there are many) designed for low-powered amplification do work superbly well in that application since they are often designed specifically with that in mind. Now if you happen to be in the crowd that insists that they have speakers that resemble public trash receptacles available among their selection, or those that look like toy soldiers beating drums, or need to know that you can make your own personal contribution to raping the rain forests of some specific exotic veneer so your friends can look on and nod in knowing admiration, well then I guess you don't need to go there, and I'd suggest vacationing and Fernando's Hideaway. But if you don't necessarily need your listening room to look like a state park picnic ground, or March of the Wooden Soldiers, or complement the burl wood on your Lamborghini’s dashboard, then do remain open to the world of various forms of low-powered amplification.

Marco

Hey Jax2 - you riding a Multistrada? Or a GS? I'm thinking about buying the Multi.

Can anyone tell me if they've had any luck adding tubes into a hi-end integrated setup.

Where in the foodchain did they go?

Just add a tube preamp for now, that way all your sources will benefit from tubes. Do your research as to which tube preamp will make a good match to your power amp. See what others have to say (Audiogon forums etc.), consult the amp's mfg for their recommendations. Note, the amount of money spent on a tube preamp doesn't guarantee a good match and or the desired outcome with your solid state power amp unless they are the same name brand. For example, CJ makes both ss & tube and they sound very good intermixed. Eventually you may even want to try/add a tube power amp as you familiarize yourself with tubes and the benefits of tube rolling.