Patrick, your priorities are slightly different from mine (I like transparency and extension above all else) but we've got the same speakers--VMPS 626R. FWIW I'm very satistified right now with my Pass X150.5. The midrange is very natural, and the treble is really something--extended and pure. I don't think you could call the midrange 'tubelike', however.
I will be very interested to hear back from you once you settle on an amp.
I will be very interested to hear back from you once you settle on an amp.