Powerdoctor,
From the qualities you said you want, midrange bloom and a big soundstage without a harsh upper end, I would suggest that a simple substitution of another tube preamp might do the job for you.
Your ARC Ref3 is a very nice preamp, however, I don't think many would say it has midrange bloom or that it attenuates the upper treble to reduce harshness. I would pose that most would describe it's qualities as being more similar to solid-state, in that it is accurate and neutral in nature, rather than what has been traditionally considered 'tubey'. This seems like a better starting point than jumping into tube amps right from the getgo.
I'd see if a local dealer can let you home audition a few different brands/models so you can attain the qualities you're after.Just an alternative suggestion.
Thanks and good luck,
Tim
From the qualities you said you want, midrange bloom and a big soundstage without a harsh upper end, I would suggest that a simple substitution of another tube preamp might do the job for you.
Your ARC Ref3 is a very nice preamp, however, I don't think many would say it has midrange bloom or that it attenuates the upper treble to reduce harshness. I would pose that most would describe it's qualities as being more similar to solid-state, in that it is accurate and neutral in nature, rather than what has been traditionally considered 'tubey'. This seems like a better starting point than jumping into tube amps right from the getgo.
I'd see if a local dealer can let you home audition a few different brands/models so you can attain the qualities you're after.Just an alternative suggestion.
Thanks and good luck,
Tim