Tube amps that kick ass?

Thanks so much to all who have responded.

Yes the GT-800's are going to be slightly out of my budget! but those are great pictures GD. Do you need anymore friends?

Keith

Keith,

why all the concern about high power with the 5A's? Ok, there are some demands down around 100Hz but most of the heavy lifting is being done by the sub's plate amp, which I hope is also rolling off the woofer just about that 100Hz. Anyway, I would be more concerned with synergy than just raw power numbers. You just may be surprised at what the "right" 50 watt/ch PP (or OTL) amp sounds like. Good luck with your search.

I was so surprised by the performance of the VAC Phi 300.1 that I got a 2nd one! Has everything you are looking for and the VAC "sound" is one of the best in audio, IMO. Organic, musical, powerful yet true to the source. There are a number of very positive reviews here on Agon. Can be had used for under $10K if you can catch one - people just don't give them up very easily. They also make a Phi 200 amp that might work for your situation. Worth checking into.

Yes Dan, you are probably correct - 50 watts of the right power might work. I like to turn my system up at times though and don't want it to strain when I do. I probably should have started a thread that was more specific to the Vandy 5A's. Maybe I will search to see if one has been started already. Thanks to everyone for such great responses.

Keithmundy- Leaning toward any of the suggestions this far?