what is an ideal tube amp


I have recently purchased a new pair of ClassicAudioLoudspeakers T-3,I believe there efficiency is about 105db/w-m .for my bedroom system.The impedance of the speaker is 16 ohms (varies between 10-20 ohms) I am presently powering them with a Gryphon Antileon Signature biased at 50 watts for class A.The sound is wonderful imaging is perfect in all three dimensions with fantastic clarity and non fatiguing,but very sensitive to sweet spot.I am told by that horn speakers sound best with tube amps,particularly set amps.
I have not had a tube power amp for over 25 years and that was a poor experience.Where I live there are not to much choice of audio dealers who support tube equipment.That means that I may have to purchase an amplifier without the ability to audition it in my system.I need help ,most tube amps I have seen looked at do not have a 16 ohms speakers tap,does that matter??I particular a 10watt amp with only output at 8 ohms I would lose half the power which may not be adequate?I would like to avoid mortgaging the house for cost of the amp,in other words those very unique Japanese amps with a price of $5,000 per watt are out.I do prefer balanced inputs as my Meridian 861V6 has XLR outputs,I use the Sooloos system extensively,however I can also use my Einstein preamp could with all my sources,Zanden transport,DAC or for sacd the Accuphase 800/801 combo.
I would also prefer a trouble free tube amp which does not require constant tuning or tweaking.I listen primarily to classical music.Your counsel will be greatly appreciated.
ramy

Showing 1 response by onhwy61

The sound is wonderful imaging is perfect in all three dimensions with fantastic clarity and non fatiguing
Based upon this statement and your comments/experiences with tube amps, I suggest you stay with what you already have. You can spend a significant sum of money, get different but not better sound, or screw the sound up with an amp that requires more user care than you want to commit. Plus the amp will go in your bedroom where the tube glow and space heater aspects may not be welcome.

Completely ignoring the above, you might also consider a Pathos TT. It has balanced inputs and only uses 2 12ax7s tubes to drive solid state output devices. It should work well into the 16 ohm load.