Since the outcome of my ultimate speaker quest was a decision to stand pat with what I already have, I've started upgrading other parts of the stereo rig. So now it's time to change from an integrated amplifier (preamp, amp, phono stage, all in one box) to separates (3 separate boxes). I've just sold my trusty Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) VK-300xSE integrated amp. I've owned it since June 2005, when I purchased it used for $3350, and have been nothing but pleased. It was reliable, sounded great, had a great user interface. It had fantastic resolution (maybe just a touch on the dry side), and brought lightning fast, well-controlled bass to my Quad speakers. I may well regret selling it. But it's too late now, it's already shipped off, sold for $3100 (not bad after 3+ years of use).
I've settled on a phono preamp (Musical Fidelity X-LPS v3) and a line level preamp (Aesthetix Calypso), so now the challenge is finding the right amplifier. Requirements: 150 watts/channel or less (the Quads can't use any more), must accept balanced inputs, and preferably not double as a space heater in my small room. I've got three amps for audition right now: Pass Aleph J; McIntosh MC275 mkV; and Ayre V-5xe. More on them later.
As I've been wrestling with the problem, it occurred to me that over my 20 years as an audiophile, I've probably owned more amplifiers than any other audio component. Here's the complete list:
NAD 2600A
Aragon 4004 Mk2
Parasound HCA-800 mkII (for a pair of Hsu subwoofers)
Pass Aleph 3
Audio Research Classic 60
Conrad Johnson Premier 12
Pass Aleph 5
Balanced Audio Technology VK-300xSE
