Best ARC tube amps for classical music?

All good preamp choices. I have owned an SP-8, SP-8 MKII and SP-11 MKII. I have intentionally stayed away from the SP-10 because of the high tube count.

The D-79B is an excellent amplifier. The only other choice may be Classic 120 monos. They are in the $3,000 price range like the D-79B.

ARC SP-8 MKII price range is $1,000 - $1,200. When properly tubed and in perfect working order the SP-8 MKII sounds like a one box version of an SP-10. It is ultra neutral and it has a terrific phono stage.

ARC SP-11 MKII price range is $2,000 - $2,500 depending on condition.

Axtl,
I would recommend an ARC D70. Either a mk1 or maybe a little better, a Mk2.
I listen to this amp with Sonus Faber Guarneri's and it is a great match up;excelling on classical and jazz.
The D-70 can also be had for what is IMHO a steal of a price nowadays.
The D-70 will also work well with either an SP-8 or10...my preference is for the SP-10Mk2. Although, I agree that this pre-amp is more costly to run.

Thanks a lot for all replies.
I am after ARC equipment since in Scandinavia ARC tube amps are quite commonly used with Sonab and Carlsson loadspeakers

What do you think of D 90?

All of the Audio Research amplifiers are very good. It just depends on how much money you want to spend. One of the best of the older amps is the D-115 MKII and it mates perfectly with the SP-8 MKII.