Affordable High Watt Tube Amp Wanted

Well if you're that broke then I would just stick with what you have. It sounds like you pretty much know what's out there for $500 or less. I just mentioned the VTL because it delivers a lot more sound for the money than other budget amps.

Its not that Im 'that broke' I just set a budget for certain items in audio Im willing to spend.
I wasnt always that way. I learned the hard way $$ doesnt always buy the best sound.
Im getting better sound now with older or vintage items I've been buying compared to when I use to buy higher priced 'brand name' new audio products.
Also,I dont know all thats out there for a older or vintage tube amp with higher wpc than my Dynaco for $500 or less.
Thats basically the point of this thread.
Your opinion of your VTL sounds like it comes from pride of ownership.
There are many fine sounding tube amps on the used market for $1000 and less.
A VTL wouldnt be my 1st choice.
I'd say Chinese amps own the 'budget' and beyond tube amp catogory.

You're always going to get a biased answer to an audiophile, equipment based question. Having owned both a Chinese amp (Jolida) and a American made amp (VTL) I can tell you that the $400 price difference (based on used prices) is worth it. I think most people who have upgraded will say the same.

Since you already own a pre-amp I'm not even sure why you are considering a Jolida integrated. I would sell off some of the equipment you own and put it towards your amp budget. Of course that's my highly biased opinion that you don't really want to hear ; )

actually what I want to hear is some answers to the questions I asked in my long post.
It doesnt look like thats going to happen.
Mathewm,I've used a outboard tube preamp to drive a tube integrated amp more than once.
Many 'philes have done this also.
If I can get a good deal on a integrated amp I'd go for it.
Unless you're buying a high priced integrated,many times ones preamp is better than the preamp circuit in a integrated anyway.
Since none of my questions have been answered,Im outta here!

David99 -- a bit late in the day, before you purchase anything, try programme material with ridiculous low frequency content (Bjork; anyone with synthi /emi induced "bass"). Look for cone movement that is NOT coincidental with the music being played... try to note the speed with which the cone STOPS moving (not starts) vs. the sound you hear. Try to check for intermodulation distortion -- example, trying to reproduce voice + unnatural bass.

If you can't detect anomalies, stay with your amp. If yes, you probably have to buy vintage and save up for extensive repair.