Tube preamp for SS amp

Hi Chad,
You ask good questions that are tough to answer. As you noted there are
many variables to consider with all things in audio. I'll give an admittedly
general impression based on personal listening encounters.
The 6H30 tube tends toward a leaner tone and body character. Some would
say neutral and accurate sound ( and call it "solid state like") . It
doesn't appeal to me as the sound is flatten and clinical, it isn't organic and
loses emotional communication.

If built -implemented to a high quality standard I'd rather have a 6sn7
based preamplifier, better sound, fuller and more realistic tonal color,
weigh and vibrancy. Just comes closer to my experience with live sound
compared to the 6H30 examples I've heard (which obviously isn't
everything out there).
I've also heard good sound with 12x7, 6922 based preamps as well.

My top choice is a preamp that uses DHT(directly heated triode) type tubes,
but that's just me.
Charles,

Zd542,
You make some valid points, I made it clear to chad my description of the
various tube characteristics were "general" . Of course the
option to hear a component in your system is by far the preferred way to
proceed, this isn't possible in many cases. Gathering information from
those with some actual experience does help establish a data base and is
useful.

I have four components in my system that were purchased without any
prior listening. I used reviews and perhaps even more importantly (to me)
input from owners on this site and other forums, results exceeded my high
expectations I'm happy to say.

There simply wasn't a way for me to hear these components in my system
without buying them, that was the reality. I know I'm not the only one who
has had to do it this way either. You have to begin the quest somewhere.
Charles,

Zd542,
I didn't take any offense at all, I was just attempting to clarify my viewpoint.