Getting started w/ tube equipment

I second the "embrace Chinese designs" suggestion...I've seen (and currently use) some extremely well made stuff from our Chinese brothers.

AMC separates, or their integrated, would be a great place to start.

If you REALLY want to get to know tube gear (and are really patient), build a ST-70. If you get one of Bob Latino's kits you'd get the experience of building a tube amp, and you'd have a good sounding amp that's switchable between triode and pentode operation. You can manage it as long as you have a reasonably steady hand and can be patient.

If you don't have the time or patience for that, you could start with a book like "Beginner's guide to Tube Audio Design" by Bruce Rozenblit. You have to keep in mind that there's some opinion in the book, but it's a solid introduction into some tube concepts/terminology. It would certainly bring your knowledge base up to speed.

As far as the integrated vs separates question, it really comes down to personal preference. Separates usually disperse heat better (and you can replace the power amp without having to replace the preamp as well). Integrated amps completely eliminate the interconnect between the power and pre; that's better than any interconnect you can find. There's also an issue of components interfering with each other in an integrated. This is part of why some separates have power supplies housed in a separate chassis.

lots of good advice here. Something to consider is the inevitable retubing of a tube amp or preamp. I'll add that you want to find an amp that doesn't run the tubes excessively hard so you keep your retubing expenses reasonable if economics are important. Some designs may sound fantastic but tube lifespan can be quite short. I've owned both kinds:) Good luck & enjoy!