You either need to use a tube preamp or a passive with the Stratos. I have used the stereo Stratos and then upgraded to the monos. Have tried several SS and tube preamps. The best match I have found so far is the Music Reference RM-5. I have also heard great things about the Musical Designs 2B as a good match with SS amps. I also have an Anthem Pre-2l and it works fine especially with NOS tubes and you get the extra benifit of a remote.
