Tube Amp Recommendation for a solid state guy

Do you use mostly CD or vinyl as well?

If your source is primarily digital, a tube DAC may be the least expensive way to get what your looking for.

For under $500, you might pick up a MHDT Paradisea used. The stock GE tube or trying other substitutes would give you some flexibility in achieving your desired sound. MIT interconnects (the less expensive Terminator line specifically) work magic in conjunction with the Paradisea, I have found.

I've had a great experience with bi-amplification using tube and SS amps. For the amplifier with larger power you will need an extra volume control to adjust balance by ear. Although you might have to adjust it every time you'd like to change to a larger volume, I'd still consider it's better than removing the built-in speaker crossover and using an electronic one.

Fosgate FAP V1

http://www.stereophile.com/tubepreamps/604fosgate/

Now you have me thinking too...

If a used mfa d75 shows up I would grab it; 75 watts with 6550 tubes and plays like it has double that.

I have said it before but here goes.

If you want to see what tubes do , then do tubes !
By that I mean go all of the way and see what is there . If you go part way you will only see part of what tubes do .

Who knows you may find what you are looking for . If not you can always sell the tubed equipment , if bought properly , and then go the part way route .

I would look for an integrated tube amp that has the versatility of using many different types of tubes . You can experiment around and hear the different sounds that different types of tubes make , both input and output . Different amounts of tube effects or warmness can be achieved this way .

I like the Primaluna Prologue 2 . With stock tubes you will get a slightly warmed up SS sound with good top end extension and a slightly rolled off base . By changing the input tubes , you can warm up the mids and base , extend the base and not loose the very nice highs . If that is not enough , you can start experimenting with the output tubes for more or less of the tube warmth thing . There are at least 4 different types , and sounds , of output tubes that this amp can use . Varying combinations will give you varying amounts of the tube sound that you are looking for . Quite a versatile piece and fairly well built .

There are three used ones for sale here within your budget .

If you go this route you will not need to disturb your present setup . This integrated should work with either of your speakers , although the 92db. ones may be better . Oh and it is self/auto biasing making it quite easy to use and tube roll . The only real downside is no remote .

Just my 2 cents worth .

Good luck .