pass labs xa30 to valve amplifier.

A tube pre can change the sound a bit, but in my experience the tube experience and the distinctive sound of tubes comes much more from the tube amp / speaker relationship than a tube pre. You have a great amp, so if you want to experiment, I think a tube amp or integrated tube amp would be the direction I would go. IMHO a tube preamp won't give you enough of the tube experience - which does not mean a tube preamp and SS amp can't sound wonderful, but IME it is not the real tube experience that tubeahololics love.

defride. thank you for the pointer. ill check that for sure. from their website, they sell the xa30.5 so a comparison could possible made there. im not too far from there too. if anything, i might be able to hear a quality tube amp to get an idea of what all the rave is about them. the droplet, incidently has valves, and sounds really good. perhaps partnering with a valve power amp might be of some benefit. any thoughts, anyone. thanks.

I agree with Pubul57's recommendation of an Atma Sphere OTL amp, a great choice for clarity, detail, speed and enough tube bloom.

I think I know what you might be up to. You want to experience Lamm, both hybrid and all tube( sorry, valve), and VAC, that's Valve Amplification Company. Both American.
Lamms are just great, they would be my choice if I could afford them at least second hand, or third one for that matter. They sound bloody awesome. I know that many think very highly of VAC too though it probably won't have Lamm's drive and dynamics but will have magical midrange and highs to die for. Lamm of course is extremely good in this department too.
Both are expensive but might last a lifetime.
God save the Queen and her subjects.

Thanks you all for the information. Im looking into them all. Anyone got any other they would endorse, id like to know. Thanks.