Help with tube amps


I have recently become quite interested in puying a tube amp. I have no knowledge about tube amps but have been told of the magical sound a tube amp will make. I am looking to be able to put this tube amp into my system once in a while in order to experience this magic with my husband through a night of romantic acoustics every once in a while. Although my budget may seem low ($1000), I am hoping that there are some amps out there that will suit my needs. Amps I have looked at so far: Houston GSP-02, Sonic Frontiers SFS-80, and Decware Zen triode. Looking for any other suggestions and/or advice.
emily
I agree with David - The C.J. MV-55 would be a good choice, with some 'steam' to drive your speakers to reasonable levels. Not far from your budget - there are two on the site at present. Question is: Will you be able to resist getting a tube pre? Hmmmmm.......Cheers, -John
You might want to take a look at the VTL ST-85...it can be had for ~$950 used. It has a nice look to it...you can see the tubes aglow through the from faceplate. It is also nice sounding piece...not quite as "romantic" sounding as the C-J stuff, but will give you that "tube magic".
another cj vote. i'm a former mv55 owner (recently upgraded to cj monos) and would highly reccomend the mv55, as well as the older 75 (i've listened to, but not lived with, one). the cj sound is wonderfully warm, musical and engaging. since in integrated a tube amp into my system, a cj tube amp, my acoustic & femal vocal collection has grown exponentially. cj equpiment really brings out the best in acoustic and femal vocals, as well as jazz. good luck.
I would also go with Conrad Johnson for that "tube" sound. I like their amps, though have never owned one myself, and the company has a good rep and should always be around if you were to need them. The Decware, though cute, would not push your speakers. Many tube amps, surprisingly enough nowadays do not really have a tube sound to them, though I do not find this to necessarily be a fault and the CJ's do still sound like tubes. Another amp that I have zero experience with, but that looks interesting is the more powerfull EL34 based amp from Music Reference. Anyone have first hand experience with this unit?