Well I'd certainly recommend the PL2. Its cheap, flexible sound wise because of potential tube selection, idiot proof use and maintenance wise, well built, and a fairly contemporary tube sound, albeit a bit warmer than many. I've got a PL1 (as well as a 3/5 combo which I think is great given the price) and can imagine that with the upgrade to PL2 it would be more transparent than the PL1 and ideal for a 2d system for those on a budget.
FWIW, if you can put up with a little less transparency (slightly rounded detail wise) and full but not exactly tight bass, you can do a lot worse than the PL1 w/a good detailed CDP. I've run my Wadia thru it and was quite surprised/pleased. They sure are cheap when they come up on A-Gon.
I forgot to mention, the are actually made in China under European design and supervision. This doesn't deter me but its contrary to your initial expression regarding national preference.
FWIW, if you can put up with a little less transparency (slightly rounded detail wise) and full but not exactly tight bass, you can do a lot worse than the PL1 w/a good detailed CDP. I've run my Wadia thru it and was quite surprised/pleased. They sure are cheap when they come up on A-Gon.
I forgot to mention, the are actually made in China under European design and supervision. This doesn't deter me but its contrary to your initial expression regarding national preference.