To Tube or not to Tube, that is the question

My experience is that it takes quite a bit of $$$ before the tube amps really show the magic they're capable of. If you want to stay under $2K, then the best price-to-performance value probably is coming from China nowadays. The offerings from the likes of Willsenton, Muzishare, Cayin, Doge, etc. offer tremendous value for under $2K. 

I have owned Raven Audio Blackhawk MK3, Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II, Rogers v65-2, VTL IT-85, and a few others. I recently bought a Willsenton R8 for $1500 and was shocked to see that it is better both in terms of SQ and build/finish. You do need to spend an extra $500-700 for better tubes since the stock ones are rubbish. The Willsenton gives you the classic tube sound, and although it lacks the refinement of amps that are, say, over $5k, it is not embarrassed by more highly priced offerings from other vendors.

I bought the Willsenton R8 from Amazon to see what the hype was all about. I was fully expecting to return it within 30 days but that sucker turned out to be too good for the price and I ended up keeping it.

If you love music and sound definitely experience a true tube amplifier.  A lightly used rogue audio cronus magnum ii should easily be in your range.  

the sound will surpass any current amp you have, the cm sound amazing and have plenty of power, dynamics and authority for your speakers.

you will hear an open, clear dynamic sound.  the sound stage will be large in all directions.  it will be an atmospheric sound, pure in tone and tambre and highly refined and smooth.  vocals and instruments will sound natural and catch your interest, they will seem to float in space.  you need to hear it.  good luck!

I've been quite pleased with my LSA VT-70 from Underwood HiFi, an online retailer. 35 watts/channel with EL34 output tubes (and it will also accept 6550 or KT88 outputs.) They are currently $1,300 plus shipping. 

To tell you the truth, your Sphinx is getting you 99% there. Tube gear takes a few more bucks to own and operate and you'll need some really nice tube friendly loudspeakers to go with the tube amps. My favorite tube set-ups featured Triangle floorstanding loudspeakers.

Great recommendations above. 

I agree that you should look at China Hifi.  Just be sure to watch the voltage specified with the amp. If you're in North America, you'll want 115/120v.  

I've owned and built all sorts of tube amps.  Willsenton and Doge are amazing amps regardless of the price/country of manufacture.