What to try?


Currently have Yamaha As1200 integrated with KLH Model 5.  Looking to get a more refined sound with a tube integrated.  220 square foot room,  8 foot ceilings.  I  am getting a somewhat foreword presentation now but good solid clear sound with punch.  Thinking about a Pathos Classic One MkIII or Willsenton R8 or Line Magnetic KT88.  The Pathos is a hybrid but have heard good things.  Play mostly vinyl with Fluance RT 85 and Ortofon Blue. Listen to mostly rock and alt country and some classical.   Just thinking of dipping my toes into tubes to get a different sound.  Any suggestions?

laecp123

I would be remiss to not mention this Octave amp that rarely comes up for sale and gets stellar reviews.  At 70Wpc not sure if it has the juice you need, but the manufacturer states it’s stable down to 2 Ohms so still may be worth a look.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649967135-octave-se-70-s-integrated-tube-amp/

https://www.soundstageultra.com/index.php/equipment-menu/423-octave-audio-v-70-se-integrated-amplifier

Another hybrid option would be Unison Unico amps that also get great reviews and have plenty of power.  Here are a couple worth a look…

https://tmraudio.com/components/integrated-amplifiers/unison-research-unico-90-stereo-tube-hybrid-integrated-amplifier-silver-open-box/

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649941719-unison-research-unico-due-black/
 

In the looks camp it’s a no-brainer — the Pathos is a stunner.  Here’s a nice used unit for only $1100 that might be tough to pass up, and you have the flexibility to add another one and run them in monoblock configuration for 180 Wpc if you find you need or want more power.  Plus you double down on its gorgeous looks. 
 

Anyway, you have lots of great options and these are just a few more to chew on FWIW.  Best of luck. 

One amp I’ve owned and don’t usually recommend to everyone is the VPI 299D, but it fits your search perfectly. It is more refined than other tube integrateds from Rogue or Primaluna and has a MM phono built in.

It was designed in joint by Harry Weisfeld (VPI) and Steve Leung (of VAS audio). Only 100 of them were made. One is on USAM now, and I have no affiliation with the seller:

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649770311-limited-addition-vpi-299d-integrated-with-additional-tubes/

The tube rolling is as extensive as a Primaluna, but has the added tube rectifier which can accept GZ34/5R4/274B variants. It lets out a lovely sound and will be bolder than your Yamaha (I’ve owned an A-S3000). 

For the money, you won't  go wrong here:

PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium Integrated Amp For Sale | Audiogon

User/mag reviews, build/feature/spec -it doesn't get much better.

Everything you need for an introduction to tube amps. Auto bias so you can use many popular tube types for your own "sound"

 

That VPI amp looks very interesting as does the Octave  I will do some research  I can not find the Pathos @soix  suggested  I know that Upscale Audio is a dealer and importer and has a 30 or 60 day trial but shipping is on buyer   That is another possibility to at least demo one but it will cost shipping if it is not a fit with my Model 5a which are well built look great and sound full  

 

I went from a LineMagnetic KT88 to Raven Audio and never looked back. Looking to go up in their line next to the Reflection. Details in my profile.

Within your budget, but no phono stage.

They sell direct only, 45 day in home trial, and 100% trade-up value within 12 months.