In search of low powered tube amp that isn’t overly hot

There are a couple of Elekits that might fit the bill.

The TU-8400 which can be used with a variety of octal based tubes and the TU-8900 which takes the 4 pin 300B or 2A3 tubes.

The 8900 is not a project for someone who has never used a soldering iron but they can be found pre-built.

I use the 8900 in my 2nd system, fed by an Eversolo DMP A8 and driving a pair of Harbeth P3ESRs. In my case it lives on top of a bookcase but given an open back with at least 6 inches above it and to the sides Google AI suggests you should be OK.

The 8900 is a very good sounding amp - I have had in my "big rig" driving Atria IIs.

My "summer amp" is a Coincident Audio Dynamo 34SE MK.ll. I use vintage Mullard (for the EL34 power tubes), and vintage RCA's for the 6SL7 input tubes. It puts out much less heat than my KT88 based regular amp, and sounds very good. It is not the current model - there is a MK.lll and other amps. But I got mine used for around $1200, and it was a bargain. I have efficient horns, and this little guy lights them up effortlessly. 

Anyway, look at Coincident, new or used.

David

@mcanaday 

dynaco by will Vincent 

he is in idaho and sells on usam

brands himself as laboratory west

very solidly built amps and lots of happy people with them

Elekit makes really good amplifiers and offer an array of parts upgrade options.  The charge for getting the “kit” already built is very modest.  Retiredaudioguy’s recommendation is very good.

Your need practically cries out for a 6bq5 based solution.  There is a large concenus opinion that the 6bq5 is among the best sounding pentode based tubes available- giving more than a hint of SET magic, combined with reasonable real world power.  They do not require a big heavy power supply to drive, and are generally quite moderate in heat disipation.   There are many choices available for either a basic stereo amplifier, or a stereo integrated amplifier.

You have received several recomendations for a Luxman N150....this is an excellent choice.  I would also suggest a Leben CX300 integrated amplifier.  IMHO, Leben designs and aesthetic remind me of a well designed vintange amplifier given a nut and bolt restoration using new high quality parts.  Either would be excellent choices for your needs.

You can also look for a vintage amp, and then have it restored.  A pair of Fisher 20a mono blocks, or an SA 100 would be ideal for your needs, as would a Fisher X202 integrated amplifier (1st version with 6bq5 tubes).  Some believe the best vintage integrated is an Eico HF81.  Eico basic amplifier choices include the HF86 stereo amp, and HF14 monoblocks.  I have all of the above amplifiers (Eico, Fisher, and Heathkit) and can attest to their sonic excellence.

You mentioned SS as a possible option, with the caveat of tube like sonics.  I would suggest investigating SS amplifiers that run in Class A...there will be some heat to consider, but not as much as a tube amp.  Sugden A21, Musical Fidelity A1, First Watt SIT4 and several Nelson Pass designs come to mind.  All would be excellent choices to investigate.

In all cases, I would recommend purchasing used equipment so you can audition several amplifiers over time, and resell what you do not want, to recover your investment.  

Please provide an update regarding your progress.