tube monoblocks and preamp recommendations


I have recently acquired a set of Altec Model 19s. In my mind, these would be great with tube monoblocks and a preamp.  I would like to keep modern conveniences in mind(remote, input for downloaded/streaming content).  I value any advice thrown my way.  Ideally, I would like to keep below $5,000 but understand I may have to pay more for something that is not integrated.  Thanks all!
harle
With the model 19's , a simple low wattage amp will blow you out of your loft, if that's what you want.
I do like to exercise my Altecs once in a while.
We have a lot of horn customers. At 100db, its nice to have a little power behind the speaker, but in most rooms what that means is likely not going to be more than about 60 watts. For that matter, you'll do fine with only 30- and especially if you are going to use a transformer-coupled tube amp, 30 watts or so is where the best performing tube amps are. More than that in a push-pull design and bandwidth becomes limited.

You could also use an SET, but in many rooms most SETs will not have enough power. With SETs you want to have the speaker efficiency such that the amp does not need to make more than about 20% of its rated power; this is to keep distortion down (SETs typically make about 10% distortion at full power, which can color their presentation, but at much lower powers their distortion becomes hard to detect even with excellent test equipment).

FWIW my speakers at home are 98 db and 16 ohms; I find 80 watts to be an ideal amount of power. 99 44/100% of the time its impossible to clip the amps.

So a lot depends on your room size and how lively it is, as well as how far you will be from the speakers and your own listening habits. If I were you before pulling the trigger on any amplifier I would audition a number of amplifiers using a list of cuts from your music library that show off various aspects of what a stereo should do: soundstage, dynamics, bass impact, detail and so on.

As far as room size, will the sound be impacted by not having a back wall more than 30 feet away?  Again, the speakers are in a loft, where we'll be listening, but directly behind the seats will be that large open room. 

One other point I failed to mention, the sitting position is only roughly 10 feet from the speakers.  Is that far back enough?  ...Do I need to consider another location for these speakers?

 Thank you all for your time and consideration.   

The system will have to fill that space behind you. In a case like this I would go with more power rather than less.
Get a pair of Altec 1569a's.  I used to drive a pair of model 17s with them.  Was a great combination.