What amplifier for Harbeth HL-5?


I recently bought a pair of Harbeth HL-5, and I think they are just great speakers: great midrange, great (but not excessive) detail, overall addictive. I currently drive them with a Shindo Monbrison preamp and an EAR 890 power amp. I also tried my second system's amplifier, an EAR 859, and despite its low power (13WPC), it drives them very well. Actually, it is hard to tell the difference between the EAR 859 and the Monbrison + EAR 890 combination, except that the former is slightly more forward. But my ears could hear very little difference between the two systems, which is surprising given the significant price difference. Since I think that I will keep them for a while, I would be curious to hear others' experiences with electronics for the HL-5.
ggavetti
I'm using a Leben CS600. When I connected a Luxman c8f solid state preamp with the Leben my Harbeth SHL5's came to life. Greater solidity and punch in the bass.

I am using a BAT VK-42SE (SS) preamp into a pair of Manley Snapper tubed monoblocks. My wife and I have really been enjoying this system. I also use a REL R505 subwoofer.
I use Leben CS600 and Plinius 8150. Leben can't quite control the Harbeths' woofers... I've had better results using Leben's 4 ohm tap rather than 8 ohms, although Harbeths' nominal impedance is 8. Better bass control, but you do sacrifice a bit of naturalism, imo... as far as I'm concerned, having lived with Super HL5s, you're better off with a high quality solid state amp with moderate output than tube amps. The Plinius sounds fantastic with the Harbeths.
Thanks for all your answers. I am intrigued in particular by Ryder's suggestion that LFDs or Lavardins might be in a different league. Has anyone ever tried these amplifiers with Harbeths?
Talk to Gene Rubin out in Santa Barbara. He is a dealer for both and a nice guy. His site can be found by typing in "Gene Rubin Audio".