How about trying one of the more full function tube units out now? I just heard the ARC ref3 in my system and thought it souned very good. At the same time we had a BAT 52se for comparison, and it sounded wonderful too. Both of these things will basically do everything but make your coffee (I actually hear that ARC is comming out with their Mk pi-to the 3rd update that will take care of that issue though ;^)). The super tube 6H30 is supposed to last 10,000 hours or so... Tube maintenence shouldn't be too much of an issue.
Seems like the only thing you would be missing is the remote compatability with the Ayre CD player..... Then again you could always upgrade that too!
Chris
Seems like the only thing you would be missing is the remote compatability with the Ayre CD player..... Then again you could always upgrade that too!
Chris