For a kit, there's no substitute for the Hagerman Cornet2, $$$ or sound. Plus it's fun to fool with. $99 for the board and another $250 and up for the parts. I've built it in a wooden box and also a Hammond 10x17x3 which accomodates step-up transformers.

As you well know, different 47k input resistors, coupling and output caps, and tube rolling make the Cornet a lot of fun. Even changing the rectifier makes a difference.

Talk to Steve Brown, too, he loves the circuit he built based on, I think, an Allen Wright design.