Luxman preamp into Mark Levinson amp?

Thank you Mike. I had my Audio Research SP8 in the mix and I could only go 3 or 4 clicks of volume. Was looking at inserting a luminous audio technology Axiom Signature passive preamp into the chain. Instead I am currently using it instead of the SP8. I have control of the voluim but the smoth bloom of tubes is lost. I've only started listening to this combination but I'm sure this not were I'm going to land. I am pretty sure I will go forward with the Luxman if I have the opportunity. My intent is to use the Lux for a time then move it into a second system with a Luxman M-7 or Accuphase P-500. I have a lot to learn about impedence and sensitivity matching. Lessons can get expensive!

I am fairly sure that I had an AR LS15 tube preamp connected to my ML 532H.

It sounded great. 

It was many years ago, and I think there was some foolery with the volume. It was either sensitive or had to be cranked up? Really not sure, it was over 10 years ago.

OP

I too amin the camp of Tube Pre and SS Power amp. The trick is the synergy of the Pre to the Power and that is where one will spend time tweaking. 

my advice is, if the Pre is sweet /analog sounding, then a power amp that is no signature, just power and can Control your speakers. 

If the Preamp is a bit detailed but a touch of Tubeness, then your Power must be Class A type power amp with which brings about some sweetness but can control the speakers

YMMV

For what it's worth, I'm running an EAR 868 pre into a ML 27.5 and it's sublime. Tubes and balanced outs as well.