Yes, I would agree you are not comparing apples to apples here. Way too many variables make a valid comparison very difficult. I've owned $1500 monoblock 2a3 amps and am presently running an $8k 845 stereo amp, no comparison, each does completely different things. In my setup the 845 amp sounds more life-like, performers are much more full bodied and life sized, also increased dynamics, both macro and micro, just a way different presentation. I will give the 2a3 kudos on voices, a little more of that 'lit within' thing, also the 2a3 is a little smoother through the midrange.
Of course, the speakers used in any particular setup matter greatly here, this may in large part make up our quite different takes on these tubes. Specifically, I am able to use a speaker (less efficient) I much prefer with my 845 amp.
I suspect your preference for the 2a3 has a lot to do with speaker choice, the different power supplies and circuitry are sure to affect your preference as well.
As usual, synergy is the key, I happen to like apples, you like oranges. Perhaps in a different setup I would prefer oranges, I just don't think its practical to make a case that one tube is superior to the other.
Of course, the speakers used in any particular setup matter greatly here, this may in large part make up our quite different takes on these tubes. Specifically, I am able to use a speaker (less efficient) I much prefer with my 845 amp.
I suspect your preference for the 2a3 has a lot to do with speaker choice, the different power supplies and circuitry are sure to affect your preference as well.
As usual, synergy is the key, I happen to like apples, you like oranges. Perhaps in a different setup I would prefer oranges, I just don't think its practical to make a case that one tube is superior to the other.