Tube Pre amp with tone control suggestions

Just to throw an idea in the ring

Use a Vintage Tube Receiver, i.e. Fisher 500C

pull the power tubes, just use the preamp's extensive features.

Out to your power amp(s) two ways:

1. tape out to amp in

2. pull the jumpers on the deck (intended for a reverb unit), use the l/r out to amp

I have two. When you clean all the controls and switches with contact cleaner, they are very quiet and sound terrific. 

here's a listing that shows it well, there are many for sale, and of course other brands receivers, using tape out will work.

At least once, try it as power for your speakers, you might fall in love.

US Audio Mart has a Luxman CL 38U SE for sale. Around $3700. Excellent price. Right in your range.

Thanks for the continued replies.

Interesting on the suggestion to use an old tube integrated. I have several of them right now actually that I might just try this with to get an Idea of what it would sound like. 

Sony model 250 
Fisher X100 
Scott Lk48 
Dynaco SCA 35 

All working units