Reproduction of acoustic instruments with tube amp

Interesting... I am with Dekay on this issue. But, we each have our listening priorities that will impact what we perceive as sounding more "real." For me, accurate reproduction of timbre and harmonic overtones are critical issues, particularly on strings and voice. With these priorities, I find a reasonably good tube amp almost always preferable given some consideration to matching the amp to the speaker it is being asked to drive. The design of the amp or type of output tube used will not give you a clear-cut guide to tube amp selection. The execution is more important than "type".

If your point of reference has been solid-state, you may need to attune your listening for some of the strengths tubes provide (midrange reproduction, timbre, overtone structure, soundstage reproduction...) and then begin evaluating whether those strengths match your priorities. I find that the mental shift in perspective is somewhat analogous to shifting between digital and analog sources. One sometimes has to re-shift one's perspective.

As to which brands/models of tube amplifiers to consider, again I would have to come back to listening priorities. For example, I have always found that conrad-johnson equipment better matches my priorities than does ARC equipment, others are just the reverse. Perhaps some posters can offer specific suggestions if you can share more about your sonic priorities and your speakers.

Thanks guys. My speakers are Audio Physic Spark III. I'm also considering trying tubes in the bedroom system which has Paradigm Studio 20 v2. I used to own a tube amp (VTL ST-85) and loved what it did for the vocals, but in then end, I went back to my SS (Plinius 100 Mk III). I didn't feel the VTL gave me the definition and separation of the instruments like my SS amps do (the others are McCormack and Coda). I don't mean this to be another "I want the best of both worlds" thread, but since vocals and the sound of acoustic instruments are the two things that I love most, if I could find a tube amp that convinces me with the instruments, I'll at least have my top two 'needs' met.

Sorry Dekay, I didn't answer your questions. I'm looking for a power amp and the room is about 10' x 12'. I use a Resolution Audio CD55 (no pre).

Audition Conrad Johnson Premier 11a or 12's if you get a chance. Just an idea. I adore the way acoustic instuments are reproduced by my 11a. I have no idea of the newer, possibly better tube gear out there and if I did upgrade I would go from my 11a to 12's.

Dburdick, you may not find what you are looking for within your budget limitations. The Atma-Sphere MA-1 would deliver what you're looking for, but used prices are higher than the limit you've set. Another alternative that would work well for me would be the c-j Premier 11a, and they are available used in the ballpark of the top end of your budget.