Which Integrated tube amp?

I wouldn't look for a random amp and then try to pair speakers to it. This seems like a huge waste of energy. I could understand this approach if you listened to five 300B amps with different speakers and the 300b sound was "The One."

I suggest listening to ten different speaker brands and narrowing it down from there. Pair the top three speakers you like with different amps and select something from there. You will like something about a certain speaker like the tonal quality, dynamics, speed, spacial qualities, etc. You may hear lines that you can't afford but at least you will understand what speakers can do. This will matter the most IMO.

Again, I could see going in this direction if you were getting a SUPER deal on something like an ARC LS26 and ref 210 amp and wanted to build a system because you just couldn't turn down the deal/quality. Otherwise I would consider the speakers more important than an ordinary $2500 integrated amp.

Good luck.

Save up a little more money and try out a Grant Fidelity Rita 880 Reference....

A what?

Gregg

I have owned Cary SLI-50 (twice), SLI-80 (3 times), Rogue Tempest 2 (twice), and heard Cayin A-88T many times. Look wise, I will pick Cary or Cayin, but sound wise I will pick Rogue which is more dynamic w/o losing the tube magic. it's also more neutral than Cary or Cayin.

a shameless plug. I will soon be selling my Tempest II to free up space since I still have two spare amps, a spare pre, and a spare table.

I have owned the Cary SLI-80 (twice), ARC VSi 55 & Rogue Cronus (max hot-rodded by Rogue) & the Cary is way better than those 2, in my rig that is. The ARC & Rogue seem to have more drive or balls but that's where it ends.