are all amps equal

Tvad, I thought speaker/tube compatibility was all about the impedance curve, and that low efficiency speakers, with benign impedance curves, simply required more power.
Phaelon (Threads | Answers)

That's true.

The OP's speakers were measured 85db by Stereophile (manufacturer's spec is 87db). As has been mentioned earlier, this would require 200-300 wpc.

Since the OP's price range is $3000, I think most tube amps are eliminated from his wish list, since there are few tube amps that put out 200-300wpc, let alone in his price range.

Atma-Sphere MA-2 fit the bill, but they cost $32,500.

I think the room you are using has a lot of input in the sound factor. What is the size of the room, flooring type,etc.
I don't know any thing about Usher speakers, but this might help those who do give a better answer than what I've read so far.

I have Magnepan, Thiel,Meadowlark and Soliloquy speakers teamed with McIntosh,Bryston,Aragon, Classe , Rotel SS amps and pre's and a CJ tube system.

It takes a lot of playing around to get great sound, move it to a different room and it sounds like S**t.

I have a great wife that lets me set my up systems in four rooms, not to mention two Plasma tv's on separate systems Harman Kardon, Yamaha, Def Tech and several subs.

By the way, I think subs are the hardest to balance in a system for great music.

P.S.
I think my wife has four boyfriends to make things even.

the room is 12 by 15, short cut carpeted floor, and two 2 by 2 foot sound panels in each corner (total of eight) all furniture is fabric... with a french door size opening on the rear wall into a larger room.

as far as extension, definition and etc the sub adds, most of the time I prefer the Ushers alone... the sub is not very "tight" as I prefer, that may be definition.
I don't understand everything I know...

Dcrookham53 - I'm afraid I might be one of them - she often mentions cruel husband that has systems in 4 rooms. Sorry.

I've found over the years of going back and forth between full-range speakers and speakers that don't deliver the low end (sub 35hz), that, like Grant, I get more overall enjoyment from speakers that make basement deliveries. I do not lean towards specific musical tastes that take advantage of that. I find I've been spoiled by the expectations that it will be there. When the music does not require it I'm not sure whether or not it factors into my enjoyment, but I would guess that it comes more into play than one might think. I'd certainly also agree with Grant's premise that price does not always define quality or lack thereof and wold extend that to any component in a system. I've heard plenty of great monitor speakers that are fun, musical and engaging, but even the best of them leave me wanting of something more. It is a personal choice though, and I am sure there are those who are very satisfied with a more limited range.