Dipping my toes into EL84 tubes

Vintage/older EL84 amps are great bang for the buck. I’ve had an Anthem Integrated Two for years- it’s too good to move along, even though its appearance is dull. Eight output tubes, 28 watts - not at all underpowered. I’ve also got an Eico HF 81 integrated, also sweet but more like 12 WPC. EL84 tubes are so plentiful and reasonably priced. Definitely worth experimenting with them. 

I have an earlier version of this amplifier. Sounds great. Looks great and matches your budget.

Black Ice Audio Glass FX 10 tube amplifier. — BLACK ICE AUDIO https://share.google/UZtciFcQw69Z6N5EE

I really like EL84’s ((7189’s)

I have a Scott 222D which sounds lovely - Craig at NOS Valves did a full rebuild of it. Have a pair of Heathkit UA-1’s I’m doing a complete rebuild of, using original build instructions combined with some mods. I also have a Heathkit SA-3 SE EL84 and I’m doing a second rebuild of that. I have iron and am planning on building the R84 MKII, which I am excited to hear.

Most of my speakers are pretty efficient, so power has never been an issue for me.

Like most things in audio, implementation of the tube, circuit design and speaker choices will matter.

My other tube amps include a Cary El34 PP integrated, a modified A12 SE EL34 and a Craigtone/Korneff DIY type 45. 
 

As has been said above, older amps, properly restored/rebuilt will perform really well, and above their price point. Plus, they look cool :)

The EL84 has been referred to as the poor man’s 300b. Lovely tone from those little tubes. 

Cayin MT-12N EL84EH is super decent if you can find one used. 

I have a Finale Audio 7189 MK2 integrated amp -  22wpc with EL84M or 7189A tubes, 20 wpc with "standard" EL84 or 7189 tubes, Hashimoto output transformers, Mundorf silver/oil caps, tube rectified. Really nice sounding amp. Don’t know if you can find one used , and if so likely above your $1K price tag but worth it