Solid state amp to go with tube preamp; used ok; budget: $3k max


I may have posed a similar question like this a while back, but I'm curious to get any updated thinking from folks, older or newer.

Situation: I have a Quicksilver Line Stage preamp and 60w monoblocks. I'm happy with them. I'd like to have a solid state amp to swap in for the monoblocks from time to time (weather, variety).

Typical desiderata in the amp are, as you'd expect, great grip on bass and pacing, smooth highs, good presence in mids, as wide and deep a soundstage as possible.

I tried Atoll 120wpc integrated (bypassing the preamp), Van Alstine SET 400, and my old Adcom 535L. None did the above to my satisfaction --problem mainly with mid, treble and with soundstage depth.

I've heard that stepping up the quality could bring something to the table, and to look out for Hegel, Ayre, Pass. Open to any topology. My speakers are 87 db, 8 ohm, and are driven just fine by 60w tube or solid state.

Specific recommendations for brands and models are welcome. I'm willing to buy, try, and re-sell if there's a good chance I'll want to keep it.

I'm going to be watching for things on used sites. Again, for this I'm setting an upper limit of $3k but am hopeful I could do fine with much less.
128x128hilde45
Sonic Frontiers Line 2.  I've had mine for over 20 years and have no inclination to change.  There's one at audiomart well within your budget.
Sonic Frontiers is no longer in business but partsconnexion.com does repairs and upgrades at a very reasonable price.  Lots of flexibility with tubes and the best remote you'll find.  I believe the designer of this preamp owns/runs partsconnexion.  Built like a tank.  Kevin Deal of upscaleaudio was a huge fan of Sonic Frontiers back in the day.