Arctic? interesting... I live in a remote location as well.. (northern Canada). and I totally understand your feelings...
i was using a home theatre receiver then started playing with a tube headphone amp... that also can work as preamp (Schiits valhalla 2)... so decided to go to tubes all the way...
Found a used audio electronic by cary audio hercules power amp.
it uses el34’s along with 12at7’s.
i truly love the combo... my gear ain’t any high end at all, but i’m super happy with it...
tubes do add warmth and honestly, i love the way they look...
they might be not as efficient as solid state, but i don’t think i can go back...
best of luck!
i was using a home theatre receiver then started playing with a tube headphone amp... that also can work as preamp (Schiits valhalla 2)... so decided to go to tubes all the way...
Found a used audio electronic by cary audio hercules power amp.
it uses el34’s along with 12at7’s.
i truly love the combo... my gear ain’t any high end at all, but i’m super happy with it...
tubes do add warmth and honestly, i love the way they look...
they might be not as efficient as solid state, but i don’t think i can go back...
best of luck!