Tube amps under $7500

@mdalton I would use the word 'vivid' to describe my Lab12 and also Jadis. They give a bold first row live music experience type that demands your listening attention. I agree that more niche brands tend to give incredible value of money. I still think my Lab12 is as good or better than anything in the market below $20000. 

@larryi You are correct that Lab12 Suara (and Integre 4 MKII2) do not have balanced input, despite having XLR input. 

There are a couple more options that OP can consider. An used Air-Tight ATM-1 would be exactly what he is looking, minus the balanced input. I've heard good things about Luxman MQ-88UC as well. 

1961 MC240….. mostly black n chrome…no biasing but no XLR…..

Have fun Hickamore

@hickamore,

See Atma-Sphere M-60 mono amps, automatic bias - no adjustment needed and true balanced differential design! Colors: black brushed anodized, silver brushed anodized, gold brushed anodized. Have fun 😎

Mike

Check out Transcendent Sound OTL tube amps.  They are sold only as kits but there are pros on the Transcendent forum that will assemble and test for a reasonable fee.

@mdalton Agreed, Suara would be a super-cool piece to look at and play with. Just  not sure it's the prudent one for me.

@ditusa Atma-Sphere definitely in contention. All now comes down to where I find the best deal on a piece that checks the boxes. Appreciate all the thoughtful advice from a forum of experienced contributors.