So I ended up buying some vintage Hirata Tango step up transformers from Japan. I hope to have them within the next 2 weeks.... not sure how the current pandemic will effect shipping times.
I truly appreciate everyone's contributions to this thread. It certainly sounds like their are some great options available. I couldn't resist snatching the virtually "unobtainable" Hirata Tango and looking forward to giving it a try. If for whatever reason it doesn't live up to it's reputation, I can always order a Sky, etc as they are still currently in production.
Wishing you all the very best of health and happiness,
Don