BAT amp + cheap pream vs BAT integrated vs Prima Luna integrated

Thank you very much for your comments! It is nice to belong to a community that triggers so much passion. 

My speakers are ATC SCM 19 Mark I, eventually I will replace them as well but for now they are by far the nicest part of my system. Obtaining the synergy that is mentioned in this thread so many times, I understand, will take some time, effort, and surely lots of $$. I already contacted a divorce lawyer, it will surely become handy soon...

My budget is $10,000, ideally including a phono preamp (actually ideally it includes the turntable but I am not going to make it). The option of the VK90T would only be possible if I connect it to a cheap preamp, and the Freya seems to be pretty good and cheap. Yes, ideally I should integrate to a BAT preamp, but that is not possible, at least now.

My concern with used is the ratio $ invested vs probability of needing repair or even replacement. I do not know technicians or how much they usually charge. The guarantee offered in new equipment (or Demos) is a factor that I take into consideration. 

Having said that, what are your thoughts about TMR? Seems to be a serious place to buy used. 

On another note, I need to clarify that the Prima Luna integrated amps that I am considering are the EVO 400 and the EVO 300 HYBRID. The VK90Ts I have seen are demo versions at 1/2 the cost of a new one. Initially I was looking for solid state integrated amps, for their clarity, which i appreciate. The tube amps and integrateds I am checking, supposedly, are clear and transparent, for being tubes.

Thanks in advance!

Many feel that a preamp is a key component.  At the very least, a system is a chain that's only as good as it's weakest link, therefore I would not add a cheap preamp  to a great amp and expect top performance.  The system would most likely sound like the cheap preamp. You could do it as a stepping stone while you save and research for a proper preamp to go with the amp. 

ATC loudspeakers generally get better results when driven by Solid State amplifiers.

I agree the preamp is very important...the Schiit Freya is great for the money, but for me, not a long term solution. BAT makes great Integrated Amps which are good value. I have owned the Freya and BAT Integrated, and friend has BAT separates, so I'm familiar with these products. After 30 years of separates, I am now super happy with an Integrated Amp...

Good luck on sorting this out-you'll get lots of good advice but it will be conflicting as we all have a different experience. My advice should be filtered through that lens, like all of it-its a very subjective hobby.

I agree with those who say you'll be disappointed to go cheap on the preamp-components should be well-matched or its the lowest common denominator that prevails.

I would prefer a well-designed and well-built integrated over mismatched amp and pre. Integrateds  are, in my opinion, closer to separates than was the case in years past. A couple of brands that I have personal experience with-be careful of recommendations from folks who haven't actually heard the products-Anthem and Michi.

Anthem builds really good stuff for a fair price. You could get an Anthem pre and amp for around your budget. I suggest taking a look at the Anthem STR Integrated. I owned that unit at one point and it was excellent. It is built to last-not cheap build at all, has plenty of power that your speakers will appreciate, a competent DAC and phono stage-everything you need for $5k. It also has the ARC room correction which tunes the output to your room. This leaves you with the budget for a nice turntable, arm, and cart.

Michi is the upscale version of Rotel-separate design teams, higher quality components, etc. Also in your budget-you have lots of choices for 10k.

I share your anxiety concerning buying used. You can save money and likely won't have any issues. But if you are unlucky, it won't be a good experience. TMR is a good compromise. You will pay a little more for used perhaps, but will get a 30 day return window (5% restock fee) and 90 day warranty. I've had 4 transactions with TMR-all good.

If you can visit a couple of dealers or a show and listen to different options, well worth the effort.

Good luck!