I never liked Cary products, don't shoot me, I just never have.
But 'smeared' is so darn far from what SET is that there must have been some other reason for your initial impression.
Don't go cheap; the cost of quality output transformers makes most kits and all finished products quite expensive. Rule of thumb, it should have an output transformer about the size of your head []
OTOH, there are many fine PP integrated amps out there. Just won't have the 'magic' of SET, but maybe that isn't your cup of tea.
IMHO (golly I use a lot of acronyms) the match between speakers and amplification is crucial to good sound. No clear-cut guidelines on what works with what, though. Trial and error and willingness to buy used and sell your mistakes is the best way to find out what works.