VAC PA100.100 is a pretty good bargin on the used market, usually from $1500 to $2000. These things rock and have some great power, but also richness, finesse and great soundstaging/imaging. It's also an aestetically beautiful piece. Mine is driving Merlin VSM-Ms and Mathew Sweet sounds great.
A rocking tube amp & speaker combo?
I am currently running a set of George Wright Mono 10's with a WLA12AL Wright preamp. I love the sound, but on heavier, more layered music, the mids & highs sound harsh through my Klipsch La Scala's. Perhaps no big surprise there. So I'm going to set up two systems: one a SET amp-based system run through the La Scala's, and the other for more driving music (Matthew Sweet to Metallica). I think the Mono 10's could work well if mated with a more appropriate speaker. Maybe a Klipsch Forte? Room aesthetics DO play a role. Don't need room shaking bass, just a clean, tight, driving sound. And no offense, but SS just isn't my cup of tea, in case you might have that in mind. Thank you for the suggestions, on either the amp or the speaker options.