I'll take the contrarian tact as usual, Grant, along the lines of something that I know you and I agree on. In this instance, I would look into solid state preamplifiers.
For one, I think this is a better combination than the conventional wisdom of tube preamplifier/solid state power amplifier. The better solid state preamplifiers are far more likely to be more laid back and relaxed in the upper mids and treble, whereas tubes can be described as more lively and forward - "engaging" in the best scenarios, and bright in the less good ones.
Solid state preamplifiers are also more likely to offer balanced operation. Of course, one thing to always check is whether a component is truly balanced, as opposed to simply offering XLR input/output jacks.
For what it's worth, trying to turn things down a notch or two in the upper mids/treble is often just as easily accomplished by attacking the room. Finally, the most usual suspect in my opinion/experience is the loudspeaker crossover, especially, in today's loudspeakers.
For one, I think this is a better combination than the conventional wisdom of tube preamplifier/solid state power amplifier. The better solid state preamplifiers are far more likely to be more laid back and relaxed in the upper mids and treble, whereas tubes can be described as more lively and forward - "engaging" in the best scenarios, and bright in the less good ones.
Solid state preamplifiers are also more likely to offer balanced operation. Of course, one thing to always check is whether a component is truly balanced, as opposed to simply offering XLR input/output jacks.
For what it's worth, trying to turn things down a notch or two in the upper mids/treble is often just as easily accomplished by attacking the room. Finally, the most usual suspect in my opinion/experience is the loudspeaker crossover, especially, in today's loudspeakers.