I am auditioning the ARC LS16 and 150.2 this weekend and I'm on the computer instead of rockin'. I know ARC has a good rep and I've heard ARC some time back that I loved but this gear I have isn't cutting it. It doesn't sound terrible, I just don't like it much and it's not what I was looking for. When I listen to the Krell, even with the Audio Note DAC, I sense space or darkness between the instruments and sounds but with the ARC it's like something is in that space. There is high end but the overall sound is veiled or dry. There's some presence but not like I was expecting from tubes and the fleshing out wasn't there. I actually found the sound less engaging than my current system instead of more engaging, which is what I was going for.

I guess the big question is, is what I'm experiencing a ARC thing or a tube thing?

My next choice to try is a Conrad Johnson PV14ls and a used MF2100. The 2100 is solid state and the PV14 tubed. I was also considering the MV60 tube power amp but I don't think it would have the power I need. I was also looking at a cool pair of Audio Valve monoblocks. They are more money than I wanted to spend but they would be the ultimate tube power within my reach. Anyone familiar with AV?

So any guidance for one seeking tubes?