@gochurchgo I hope I do not upset anyone, as this is very personal for each of us. Every amp has characteristics that could be positive, and/or negative. Speakers, room size/acoustics, listening distance between listener and speakers, music selection and taste, optimum and enjoyable volume levels and of course, other characteristics the individual is wanting. For cheap, I would buy a used Nuforce STA200. At a higher price, maybe a used Pass XA25. Both fantastic, and with horns. There are many more to choose from. I would not go tubes at this point with technology (power amp specifically). BTW, if you appreciate tautness, control, speed, fast transients, rhythmic momentum and less "color", particularly with the lower octaves, these are not the forte of tubes. I am not knocking tubes, as I understand why the love. I left tubes (again power amplifiers specifically) a very long time ago, and the virtues of music and sound reproduction I look for and appreciate, are with great solid state. Please pardon me. My best, MrD.