Best tube amp $2000-2500?

As someone who owns both Coincident loudspeakers and AtmaSphere amplifiers, my opinion is that despite what is normally said, this isn't the best of matchups. Each of these components is on the more forward, lively, and engaging side, and I often find the combination can be a bit leaner than I prefer. I realize Israel Blume advertises that he uses AtmaSphere amplifiers, but he's also gone out of his way over the past decade to get into the amplifier business.

Personally, my Atma Spheres sound best with my older Fried (A/6 and, especially, Valhalla) loudspeakers, which present a more resistive load than the Coincidents. In fact, I've not heard the Atmas find a better companion. My Coincidents do best with transformer coupled tube amplifiers with more power than what most of their advertising goes towards, such as my Jadis. So, if you're leaning towards Coincident, I'd personally look into brands like AES, Air Tight, Audio Note, BAT, Cary, DeHavilland, Jadis, Manley, Music Reference, Quicksilver, and VAC.

As a former owner of the Total Eclipse, the best combination to my ears was Antique Sound Labs Hurricanes. Another good match was the Sonic Frontiers Power 2.

I'm not sure what Cary amps you've heard, but I am currently getting a nice full and dynamic sound from some Cary/AES Sixpacs. Not too "tubey" at all, ran with Merlin Mxe's and currently some Von Schweikerts.

Whoever said it's less about the amp, and more about the amp/speaker matching is correct.

Do consider the AES Super Amp MkII. It is made by Cary and it sold with EL34s or KT90s, but 6550s, KT77s, KT88 and a host of other tubes can be used. The manual clearly outlines biasing values for many tubes and no mods are needed to roll tubes.

What makes this amp so versatile is the use of newly designed transformers. Speakers from 2-32 ohms can be used with one set of speaker binding posts. I am currently using this amp with DIY speakers with Seas Excel drivers like Coincident.

It is quite a remarkable sounding amp. It is not as big hipped sounding as other Cary gear. The bass is very tight and controlled while the over all sound is dynamic, rhythmic, and tuneful. It has a lot in common with SS gear, but with a full-bodied presentation. These observations are made with EL34s. I've haven't rolled tubes because it sound just right and combines the SS and tube sound in one fine amp.

An interesting observation I have noticed is that with Herbies tube dampers on the 2 6SN7 driver tubes the sound becomes even more tight and airy. With the dampness off the tubes it has a fuller sound. I am using a full compliment of EH tubes.

Thanks for the recommendations. It sounds like Music Reference stuff may be the way to go, at least to try out.

Another amp I didn't mention: what about the Audio Research VT100 MKII? Seems like a good value at $2000 used.

Forgot to mention that my preamp is TBD, but likely looking at a Modwright 9.0 Signature.