A rocking tube amp & speaker combo?

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.

i ran lascals with alk crossovers instead of stock and if big room need more power i went to von schweikert