Yah, you can convert the old 8417 but then you totally change the character and in my opinion, not for the better. Too bad cuz the 5 tube version was a sweet amp. Actually they were mono's.
And yes, as others have suggested, the Atma-Sphere S-30 would also be a great choice if mated with the right speaker.
And yes, as others have suggested, the Atma-Sphere S-30 would also be a great choice if mated with the right speaker.