This has been an interesting thread, with a useful mix of opinions and
information. As with most hifi matters, things eventually resolves,
usually with a purchase, or an abrupt refusal from the bank to extend
credit :-).

Martin please keep us posted on how you get on--what you get within your
budget, whether it meets your current needs, etc. Note, this does not
mean "top quality hifi"; just "good enough to give you enjoyable results
for your money".

If the valve revival is to continue, there surely need to be products
available in the mid-fi price range. Having said that, IMHO Trevor is
right about the link between transformer cost and quality, so there are
constraints. Another possible solution is the hybrid route.