Although you have been warned away from tubes, what has finally done it for me is a VAC PA 35.35 push-pull EL 34 amp. I purchased it here on A'gon, and have recently sent it back to the factory for an upgrade.
Even before the upgrade, this 35Wpc amp had more dynamic power, detail, and resoulution than my Plinius SA 100 MKIII. After the upgrade, it is by far the best sounding amp I've had yet, in 40 years. Tube rolling helped quite a bit as well. The VAC is not big on watts, but its ability to provide large amounts of current, gives it enough oomph to do an outstanding job. My speakers are in the 90db sensibility.
All this superb performance cost about $2200. Quite reasonable, in my opinion. Best of luck with your decision, and whatever you wind up with, I hope you enjoy it.
Best regards,
Dan
Even before the upgrade, this 35Wpc amp had more dynamic power, detail, and resoulution than my Plinius SA 100 MKIII. After the upgrade, it is by far the best sounding amp I've had yet, in 40 years. Tube rolling helped quite a bit as well. The VAC is not big on watts, but its ability to provide large amounts of current, gives it enough oomph to do an outstanding job. My speakers are in the 90db sensibility.
All this superb performance cost about $2200. Quite reasonable, in my opinion. Best of luck with your decision, and whatever you wind up with, I hope you enjoy it.
Best regards,
Dan