Tube Power Amp Recommendations around $2000

An Atma-Sphere S-30 on a $2000 budget? Last couple of Mk3 versions (one stock, one with 3 of the 4 upgrades available) that came up used were $2800+. Not sure settling for anything less than a Mk3 or Mk3.1 version would be worth it. Agreed its a fine amp and customer support is exceptional, but the OP would need to stretch his budget and wait for one to show up used.

Music Reference RM-10 is a good bet and well under budget used these days.

The RM10 would be a real powerhouse with these speakers, and a great amp it is, but the EM7 may be even more suitable if OP is seeking that "triode" sound and with those sensitive speakers a viable option. Anything my Music Reference is execeptionally good IMHO.

I own Druids, and I've owned both the Almarro A205A and the Music Reference EM7. While both sounded great at low volumes, both ran out of steam when I turned it up.

In my experience, the efficiency of the Zu speakers is a little misleading. While 101 (or even 97) dB would indicate low power compatibility, I've found that those big ole' FRDs need some juice to really get them moving. I'm using an AudioSector Patek right now, but have been itching to try a tube amp with more power.

Lots of people love and use the Atma-Sphere S30 with Zu, but Ralph himself has stated he likes them better with the M60s, clearly out of the OP's price range. I really want to try the Music Reference RM-10, as I loved Roger's EM7 for pure sweetness.

Another intriguing option is the Quicksilver Horn Monos, specifically designed for high efficiency speakers. They're within the price range new, although rarely seen used.

Good luck with the Souls! If I didn't already own Druids + Mini Method, I'd be all over a pair of Superflys.

David

If the S30 is not enough power, then the RM10 would be my top recommendation $1,950 new, 1-1.2k used _ I have one and it is one of my favourite amps ever, if 35 watts is enough power - with the Zu it should alot of power (they are plenty with my 89db Merlin VSMs in my 12x18 room. The Horn Monos also sounds like a really good option, all QS I Have owned were very good amps.

Try ARC VT 130. An unsung hero and one of the "special" ones for those in the know. I had one for well over a decade before moving on to it bigger brother the VT 150s. Not sure it was a wise move on my part to go there..the VT 130 was that good. Fantastic mid range and surprising bass.