What is the best 2A3 SET Amplifier?

I purchased a Cary 2A3 SI from Kevin Deal at Upscale Audio. It is a great integrated. My intention is to upgrade my speakers to a pair of Unos later this year. Kevin recommended the Cary. I am still breaking it in, but it already sounds terrific -- and it looks spectacular as well. Nothing like turning off the lights and listening to some great vocals by the light of the tubes!!

Best is very subjective. Here are some good choices (kit and assembled) at varying price points. The prices are list for new items. Shopping used can get you up to 50% off.

Bottlehead Paramour Monoblocks ($550 for kit)

AES SE-1 (Approx $950 as kit or $1150 assembled. Plays 2A3 and 300B)

Sun Sv 2A3 ($950 for kit, $1750 Assembled)

Bottlehead Paraglow Monoblocks - Parafeed ($1150 for Kit)

Wright WPA3.5 Monoblocks $1430

Welborne Moondog Mono's(Approx $1600 for kit or $2095 assembled)

Moth Si2A3 (Integrated) $1995

Cary CAD-2A3-SE Monoblocks $3500

Wavelength Gemini (Plays 2A3 and 45) $5000

I personally like Monoblock designs with tube rectification but you will get "heated" arguments over this.

Finally, do not equate "best" with higher price. This is not always the case. In fact, many DIY-ers will say that they can build themselves a home brew 2A3 better than anything that's out there for well under $1000 in parts.

My advice - Audition as many as you can first,check out local audio clubs and talk to the DIY folks.

Good luck

For your hi-end Avantgarde 2.1, you should use the best 2A3 SET amp that money can buy.
Forget about the Cary, Wavelength or any SET amp that are made in USA(they are beginner in SET amp design!) - poor design, very low quality parts that including the output transformer!
*Cary designed a 300B amp that give out 15 watts/channel. I don't think the designer understands the 300B tube at all. It is a complete joke!

If you have the $$$, the best is:
Audio Note "Japan" 2A3 SET amp
JC Verdier 2A3 SET amp and similar 2A3 SET amp from L'audiophile

And remember always use NOS 2A3 tubes, please don't use any modern 2A3 tubes........