I know Monoprice at one time sold an amp in which the tubes were nowhere in the signal path. They were just for looks. Might do some research and make sure this isn't the case with your model before shelling out coin for new tubes.
Denon and Yamaha are both making integrateds of excellent value these days. I doubt you could go wrong with either and your KEFs could probably use the additional power. I've gotten great results using my $400 Yamaha with $5K+ speakers. Sure, a $2K amp will outperform it but not by the margin you might imagine, really only 15% or so.
Don't waste money on cables, especially at the level of gear you're working with. That's about the worst thing you can do in your situation. Put all your funds where it really matters: amp/speakers/room treatments. I've yet to encounter a system bottle-necked by inexpensive cables. The room and system/listener positions within the room are most often the greatest hindrance to performance. Really can't stress that enough.
Denon and Yamaha are both making integrateds of excellent value these days. I doubt you could go wrong with either and your KEFs could probably use the additional power. I've gotten great results using my $400 Yamaha with $5K+ speakers. Sure, a $2K amp will outperform it but not by the margin you might imagine, really only 15% or so.
Don't waste money on cables, especially at the level of gear you're working with. That's about the worst thing you can do in your situation. Put all your funds where it really matters: amp/speakers/room treatments. I've yet to encounter a system bottle-necked by inexpensive cables. The room and system/listener positions within the room are most often the greatest hindrance to performance. Really can't stress that enough.
