Amplifiers in use with big Harbeths (Mon 40 series) that work very well

Plinius SA-102 in class A (best solid state I’ve owned)

May I ask what preamp was matched to the Plinius SA-102. I used to own the SA-100mk3 with Harbeth SHL5 and the sound was too warm and thick in the midrange and bass with reduced clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum. I tried about 3 or 4 preamps with the SA-100mk3 without much success. Few integrated amps sound better than the Plinius separates but they didn’t go too low in the bass.

In the end I settled with Naim mid range separates for the Harbeth, now upgraded to SHL5+.

I used an Aesthetix Calypso with NOS tubes.  

While the Plinius was the best solid state amp Ive owned, I haven't owned a lot of SS amps as I prefer tube amps.   If I had to use SS, the SA 102 is an amp I could live with.

The Benchmark AHB2 monos with LA4 preamp, M40.2 Annie’s, 14 x 21 room is stunningly good.  Quietest background I have ever heard, never bright or harsh, balanced top to bottom.  Perhaps not as liquid as some other SS and tube amps but otherwise very impressive.  I think the 40s respond well to 400 w/ch as well.  

I used an Aesthetix Calypso with NOS tubes.  

While the Plinius was the best solid state amp Ive owned, I haven't owned a lot of SS amps as I prefer tube amps.   If I had to use SS, the SA 102 is an amp I could live with.

Thanks for the response. The Audio Research LS16 Mk2 sounded best with the Plinius SA-100Mk3 on the Harbeth although the overall combined system wasn't cutting it. I suspect the SA-102 is a significantly better sounding amp than the SA-100 and the Aesthetix Calpyso is a good match to it.

appreciate the inputs and discussion so far

the mon 40’s represent an interesting challenge for amplification... highly resolving, not super hard to drive, but hard enough that really low power amps need not apply -- moderately efficient, so doesn’t need a ton of power, but really likes more power if it is uber pure

responds well to tube beauty but with the big woofers you will certainly give up something on the low end in the trade

like many great speakers, it may have some of its own personality but it let’s you hear pretty plainly what you are driving it with, good or bad