I had a hybrid tube preamp (Melos Sha-1) with MOSFET output and when I gave the Channel Islands passive a tryout it wasn't funny. The same happened when I brought it over to someone here who's got a $3500 tube preamp. My experience tells me that a hybrid tube amp (like the Van Alstine) would be a good choice--or a well designed tube amp. Unless your IC runs are long I'd stick to the passive pre/tube power amp combo.
Disclaimer: my system is 100% solid state...and will stay solid state.
Disclaimer: my system is 100% solid state...and will stay solid state.