A rocking tube amp & speaker combo?

As an old LaScala owner I know exactly what your hearing. That sound is never going to go completely away. There are ways to help.

I agree with the above coments regarding amps. But also consider this. (Maybe you've already done this)

Clean internal connections in the speaker.
Possibly rewiring with better cable.
Choice of speaker wire is important.
Clean power will also dramatically smooth out the sound. There is so much junk on the AC, it's severly magnified by a speaker with that sensitivity.

If you're using CD as a source, look into a tube CD player.

I recently heard some Audio Research gear with ProAc speakers, and that was a great combination. So much so, that I ordered a pair of ProAc Tablette Reference 8 Signatures on the spot. Still considering an Audio Research or similar integrated.

Tom.

VAC PA100.100 is a pretty good bargin on the used market, usually from $1500 to $2000. These things rock and have some great power, but also richness, finesse and great soundstaging/imaging. It's also an aestetically beautiful piece. Mine is driving Merlin VSM-Ms and Mathew Sweet sounds great.

I have heard at least a dozen different Klipsch models over the past 25 yrs including cornerhorns and LaScalas. Have heard them in numerous stores and homes with tube and SS amps - never heard them sound good, there is always a 'fingernail on blackboard' sound inside the music. I think you need to start looking for properly designed horns or other designs such as the Decware models. I understand the mystique about Klipsches but it's time to face the reality - I most recently heard LaScalas being run by expensive Mac tube gear and the music was awful. I then listened to Classic Audio models with EAR tube integrated amp and it sounded quite good, unfortunately they were $9,600.00 a pair and need a good sized room. Time for someone to design and sell a musical $3,500.00 horn speaker that's not harsh. Maybe that's not possible.

Thanks again for all the input. I appreciate it.