j0sh, you will notice here that the ideologues come out of the brush at first mention of tubes. Always.
You may also notice that you asked "how much difference...?" not "which is better, solid state or tubes?". And, you got the ideologue's answer to the latter question, not your question. I say ideologue because of this very advocation.
My suggestion however, is similar but for different and more secure reasons. If you are unsure or don't want to take the full plunge, try just starting with a tube preamp.
