tube amp mentor needed!

[rloggie]

Steve,

I've also had many tube amps in the past ten years. Push-pull, OTL, Kt88, EL34, then 300b SE, 2A3 PP (14wpc) and now a 211 driven by 300b that I have yet to run. So far I liked the 2A3 sound better than the rest. Using it to drive S8R, I kept the passive volume to no more than 1/4 (loud). I would highly recommend trying the 2A3 if you can find the one that puts out the appropriate wpc for your needs. Most recently many seem to be going to the 45 tube. Could you describe the sound vs. 2A3 (with horns)?
Thanks,

[Nightbrace]

I agree a tube pre-amp, will give you great results coupled with a great solid state amplifier. On a budget I'd highly recommend late 60's Dynaco tube preamplifiers.