I purchased a new VTL 2.5 a few months ago and am very pleased. It has HT bypass and a remote for volume and mute only. I got some NOS Mullards from Upscale Audio to replace the 2 12AU7 and 2 12AT7 standard tubes - will cost you about $150 for all 4 tubes and you could buy a used 2.5 for $1000-$1200. This combo will give you the midrange bloom as well as great detail and presence.
I'm using an Aragon amp(4004MKII), too, and it's a good match in impedance and performance. They also look good together - the VTL comes in either silver or black. I'm not selling anything, just a fan.