Orpheus, let me address a specific brand you mentioned - Herron.
I've attended the CES in Vegas for at least 15 years, although not the past two. Through that time I developed a very high regard for Keith's products since his room always impressed me as one of the most musical and enjoyable at any given year's show. Previously he utilized other name brand speakers but more recently he brought a prototype pair of his own design.
While not wanting to enter the debate on how much a tube preamp/line stage can influence the sound, I will say his line stage was tube based while his amps were SS monoblocs. The result was musical, without edge or distortion, dynamic, and could be listened to for extended periods without any fatigue.
Given your objectives, I wouldn't make a purchase without auditioning Herron.
I've attended the CES in Vegas for at least 15 years, although not the past two. Through that time I developed a very high regard for Keith's products since his room always impressed me as one of the most musical and enjoyable at any given year's show. Previously he utilized other name brand speakers but more recently he brought a prototype pair of his own design.
While not wanting to enter the debate on how much a tube preamp/line stage can influence the sound, I will say his line stage was tube based while his amps were SS monoblocs. The result was musical, without edge or distortion, dynamic, and could be listened to for extended periods without any fatigue.
Given your objectives, I wouldn't make a purchase without auditioning Herron.