Aesthetix Calypso is a no-brainer. First SOund Presence Deluxe, VAC Renaissance are all going to take you in the right direction. I applaud your courage - i did the same thing a while ago, and now have tubed amp (OTL Berning) and preamp (First Sound), and will NEVER look back.
As to needing to sell the Thiels, not so if you keep you muscular SS amp....
As to needing to sell the Thiels, not so if you keep you muscular SS amp....