Matching up speakers and amps

Steveaudio: Actually, I have no issues with the sound of my system, just that I have had the McCormack and the Acurus pre amp for 13 years and I'm itching to try tubes!

You should go ahead and do that then. The Spendors have usually been tube-friendly.

*Actually, I have no issues with the sound of my system, just that I have had the McCormack and the Acurus pre amp for 13 years and I'm itching to try tubes!*

Easiest thing: Get a tube pre-amp. Like Mechans said, a used ARC, C-J, or Cary, you could add VTL. I have a wonderful Cary SLP-98 pre-amp, but paired with a SS (C-J) amp. Depending on what kind of sound you want, you can get some pretty nice used tube pre's for $1000-ish. Want kind of "tubey"? A VTL 2.5TL, or older C-J. Pay more, like for a more modern C-J or Cary, that's a different sound. "Better", more neutral, but still will add some "tube warmth".

Tube Power amps: that's a whole 'nother issue. Make sure your speakers are fairly efficient, & "tube-friendly". I'd start with a tube pre......

IMHO, the Acurus is the weak link, and though not because of that, the least tube like sounding component in your system. It would seem that the Acurus would be the component to consider replacing with a tube unit. But a bit of caution might be in order. I can't seem to find the specs on the DNA .05, but different models of McCormack amps had various input impedance's and sensitivity. Some had input impedance's that might be a bit low for some high output impedance tube pres, and others had a rather high sensitivity for some of the tube pres that have higher output, compromising the usability of the pre volume pot. Using a tube pre can work, and work well, but as always do your homework first.

I agree that the McCormack is the week link if looking for a tube sound, I also agree that the pre's mentioned are all nice sounding tubes and that the DNA.05 is a fine sounding amp, BUT, if you are truly trying to add a tube flavor to your system, no preamp will add near the flavor of a good tubed amp. So be prepared that if you take a preamp suggestion, it might or might not be "enough" of that tube flavor that you are looking for.
Tim