Tubes/SS Power Amps?

Phaelon, I'm well aware of what you were speaking of and class AB probably sounds as good as A, and runs much cooler. Class A is too extreme as far as heat is concerned, and I wouldn't have one. After all is said and done I'll probably end up with tubes, but as I stated before, I've never even heard a top of the line SS amp.

Heat schmeat. Tubes are more fun.

See if you can audition Ayre MX-Rs paired with a Nagra PL-L or Jazz and then form your own opinion.

Orpheus, let me address a specific brand you mentioned - Herron.

I've attended the CES in Vegas for at least 15 years, although not the past two. Through that time I developed a very high regard for Keith's products since his room always impressed me as one of the most musical and enjoyable at any given year's show. Previously he utilized other name brand speakers but more recently he brought a prototype pair of his own design.

While not wanting to enter the debate on how much a tube preamp/line stage can influence the sound, I will say his line stage was tube based while his amps were SS monoblocs. The result was musical, without edge or distortion, dynamic, and could be listened to for extended periods without any fatigue.

Given your objectives, I wouldn't make a purchase without auditioning Herron.

I don't think that too many would disagree that through time as equipment has improved, there is less of a line between the very best tubes vs ss. I'm sure we have all heard terrific systems from both camps. I have heard great systems with all kinds of variations. As Tim suggested above (Noble100). I would chime in to say that very good class D amps, as mentioned or if on a tighter budget the new m amps from wired would be terrific with a good tubed pre amp. I am also fond of the newer Coda amps with a good tubed pre, I've heard very musical combinations there.
Good Luck,
Tim