John, I've been using a 60 year old Masterwork (by Pilot) integrated with a Chord Hugo and Merrill Zigmahornets for many years. Smaller output tubes like EL84s seem to hit the sweet spot for me. You could consider Pilot, Scott, Heath or more. The Rogue is a hybrid with a solid state amp and way more power than you will ever need (but is nice). There are a fair number of EL84 based integratedes/receivers on here and USAM for 750-1500.
The other fun part of an el84 based amp is tube rolling. If you listed as much as I do at work it is fun and easy to do.
Finally, I would really suggest trying non-nearfield listening. My speakers sound way better moved a few feet away from my desk. Imaging is better too.
The other fun part of an el84 based amp is tube rolling. If you listed as much as I do at work it is fun and easy to do.
Finally, I would really suggest trying non-nearfield listening. My speakers sound way better moved a few feet away from my desk. Imaging is better too.