The ET's are a tremendous value, but as you've pointed out they do need lots of juice to get the most out of 'em. I use a BAT VK500 (250wpc), plenty of current to drive the ET's. The BAT solid state gear is voiced to be slightly dark so speaker cable selection plays a role as well. My Transparent cables were a poor match, DH Labs Q10 are a great fit.
I also tried out a vintage Class DR-8 amp (70wpc) and it sounded very nice, but the bottom end and transients weren't quite as good as the BAT.
I also tried out a vintage Class DR-8 amp (70wpc) and it sounded very nice, but the bottom end and transients weren't quite as good as the BAT.