Matching an Amplifier to my Proac Response 2.5s + CJ PV5


I'm needing help/suggestions for finding a good amp to pair with two components: a Conrad PV5 tube preamp and my Proac Response 2.5s (rated at 86dB)

I've tried two amps: Bryston 3bst, which was way too bright for my taste, as well as an Assemblage ST40 (basic el34 40/watt), which is pretty good, but maybe lacking a little magic and detail.

Budget is under $2k...some amps that interest me in that budget are Pass Aleph 3 or 5, Music Reference RM9, CJ MV52 or Premier...

I listen mostly at low to medium volumes, and bass "slam" and extension is not a necessity. 

Big thanks!


128x128thetwin
I owned the Response 2.5 in the past and I think they need a bit of power to perform due to the low sensitivity. I had them paired with Quicksilver V-4 amplifiers which would be a bit over your budget ($2.5k)
Ah, thanks...maybe I should push my budget up to < $2.5k. 

I'll check those out...
The RM-9 might work nicely. The speaker is very tube-friendly FWIW. Back when it was in production we had lots of customers using them with our M-60s.