which tube amp to try???

A used Quicksilver would be on my list. If you can find one, a used Music Refence RM9 would be my first choice, but most owners don't let go of them very readily.

100+ wpc for under ~$1,500?

Might want to look at the used Manley M-120's or VTL Compact 100, mb-125, or Delux 300 monoblocks for sale here.

thank you, some good suggestions here. will look into them.

If you can stretch that budget just a smidge, there is a terrific Butler Audio TDb-2250 on Audiogon right now for $1600/obo. Read up on these amps, they are marvelous...

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstube&1237072924&/Butler-2250-Hybrid-250w-trades

I have one of their 5 channel amps (TDB-5150) and I am thoroughly smitten by this amp's performance and sound.

-RW-

thank you again,will check it out

I've been using a pair of Cary SLM-100's for a few years now. Out of the gate, they were a very transparent pair, tubed with Sylvania and Winged 'C's. They're rock solid on their bias, easy on tubes, and very easy to mod(should you desire to). I don't plan on replacing them any time soon, as I've easily been able to reproduce the gestalt of live music(which I get to listen to 2-3 times a week) with them in the system(Like I said- they're easy to mod/upgrade). If you love real music, in live venues: You won't be disappointed with the SLM-100s. With TungSol 6SN7GT(round plate) and Sylvania 6SN7W(tall bottle) tubes in the driver and phase splitter positions(respectively), the sound staging and imaging are spot on. Your results will depend on the selections you make concerning tubes, speakers, cables, pre and source(of course). The Carys will never be the weak link in any chain though. (http://www.caryaudio.com/press/reviews/may96.html) You should note that the minor criticisms in this review could have been easily addressed by a change from the stock tubes. If I read your post correctly- You intend to drive your mids/highs with them. That's what I'm doing with my Maggies(actively bi-amped), and they work excellently in that application.

VTL/Manley,Quicksilver and PrimaLuna 6/7 (70W).

Both companies offer excellent products. I used to have a Rogue Stereo 90 and it was a very good amp. Rogue offers excellent customer service. I have only owned a Cary Preamp SLP98 and it was an excellent value as well. The Cary SLM 100 seems a bit more intriguing since it affords greater versatility in tube rolling. I also like what Rodman has to say about the Cary SLM 100.

thank you all!!! im taking it all in and its just a matter of time befour i get something. its good to hear from folks that have had/tried out some of this equipmenttom

I'd add to this impressive list of recommendations any of the Will Vincent Dynacos. Very, very hard to beat, and Will can tailor the finish to your taste.