Newbie wants tube recommendations

With your speakers you will want an amp that retains some of the better qualities of solid state...ie, deep powerful bass.

Not all tube amps are created equal...stay away from the classic tube sound types IMO...they work best with bookshelf speakers...no deep bass needed so not an important factor.

The Aronov and Rogue brands would work well for you...lots of others fit the bill also but I'm not sure what you mean by "Don't break the bank"?

Dave

Thanks for everyone's suggestions. The biggest priority in buying a tube amp was the dollars. I was not going to be able to try tubes, unless it was cheap (realitively speaking, of course).

Well after posting this message in the morning, I kept looking at all the listings here on Audiogon. I came across a listing for a demo Jolida JD-302B from Underwood HIFI for $770. Well I called the guy (don't remember his name) at Underwood and we talked for a little while. I explained my situation to him and he seemed like a really nice guy; a real straight shooter. I asked about the 302B and the 502B. He explained a little about the difference in sound between tubes and solid state. He asked about the watts on my Parasound. He said the 502B has a little better low end and more detail and the 302B had a very sweet midrange. He said either one at moderate levels would easily out perform my Parasound. Of course, that is the reason for this whole fun hobby of mine and probably most of you. Keep searching for that better sound.

Again, thanks for everyone taking the time to respond.

Sorry I forgot to say that I went with 302B. I guess I shall see.

Definitely check out Rogue Audio; I recently purchased a Cronus integrated and after about 100 hours on it I am still amazed by the sonic quality through the Vandy 2Ce Sigs.

The Jolida 302b is a great tube amp for a start...solid sound and inexpensive.

Enjoy!