Could it be a combination of the "less bright" v4's, AND the tube amp together? You said that the ti's were too "sharp" with a transistor amp, and that the tube amp "warmed" things.

Try the v4's with the Marantz and see how they sound with it.

Shawn

Epic 80/600 + M3's + M3 Algonquins + M2 Computer + EP125
I think I'm developing an addiction.