I just don't see you finding the magic you've had anywhere else but tubes. Asking to get that magic while also playing loud AND for under $3k is a pretty tall order. At least with your speakers, which if they are the clones you say they are then they are about 95dB. Which could be worse, but could also be better.
All I can say, I get plenty of tube magic from my Melody, (it was about $2500 full retail when new), and a Raven Nighthawk will sound even better and you can get one for $3k. The Melody was able to play good and loud with Talon Khorus that were only 92dB. Now with Moabs at 98dB it plays a lot louder without ever going anywhere near where it was with the less efficient Khorus.
Of course we have no way of knowing if your DIY speakers are 95dB, or more, or less. Huge difference. Could be all you need are Tekton Double Impacts.
Anyway, I would totally give the Raven Nighthawk a try.
All I can say, I get plenty of tube magic from my Melody, (it was about $2500 full retail when new), and a Raven Nighthawk will sound even better and you can get one for $3k. The Melody was able to play good and loud with Talon Khorus that were only 92dB. Now with Moabs at 98dB it plays a lot louder without ever going anywhere near where it was with the less efficient Khorus.
Of course we have no way of knowing if your DIY speakers are 95dB, or more, or less. Huge difference. Could be all you need are Tekton Double Impacts.
Anyway, I would totally give the Raven Nighthawk a try.