Having heard and listened to all the models in question with both solid state amps and tube amps. I maintain the following opinion.
You get what you pay for.
I'm not going to say that the Thermionic or Theatre series is bad in any respect. I'm simply saying the more expensive drivers sound more controlled and cleaner to the ears than the less expensive drivers.
You cant always pay attention to the specifications. There are lots of speakers around the world that have the same specs (of 40hz-16k for example). Each and every one sounds different even though the spec is the same. Along the same line as that thought comes my next opine, that even though the Theatre series shows a lower bass response, I'm saying the the bass response from a Stage series is "better bass"I've never had any difficulties playing any of these models with smaller amps. Even though the Zmax reaches to just over a hundred on the Stage and Premium stage (pro for that matter too) The amp is less able to control the driver, but the driver is less boomy and more controlled already. So is the control factor a wash? I doubt it and I'm not going to do the math to figure it out. But, They all sound great and since I dont try and play a "concert level" with a SET amp. I don't have any problems and I have always felt the better sounds came from the better drivers such as the Premium Stage, and the Stage.
Lots of guys have built different kits and packages and are quite happy with what they have. And they should be, they all sound great.
If you want to run a 2A3 or a 45. It is going to sound fine. You just have less headroom and with a 45 and total output will be as such. From building and listening to each and every one of these models. My top picks are the 4 Pi, Premium stage or Stage.
Ciao,
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