500 to spend on int.amp,help me match with gear.

I second the Audio Refinement, one day my friends and I compared one to a Levinson 383 ($6000) and while the Levinson was better (with B&W 803's) we were all amazed that the Audio Refinement was not only listenable but had at least 80% of the detail and tone of the Levinson. Not to mention it seemed quite powerful too.

hope this helps

I have three systems in my house. From what you are telling people, I would recommend the Acurus DIA 150. It is an int. amp that has a killer sound. They sell new for I think $1500. You can find them on AG between $500-$650.
Read about this amp and I think you will find it is a beautiful sounding amp with plenty of power to push any speaker out there.
Good Luck with your search.

I own an audio refinement now and think it is a great integrated. Others to consdier would be a Mistral, anthem INT 1 or 2. You can sometimes find them in your price range. Creek is also a good suggestion. If you don't like the harshness, I would stay away from the Rotel. Just my opinion.

Rega Brio - we sell a lot of 'em to customers in exactly your situation. Great sound, bargain price.

You might want to consider taking the pre-outs from the yamaha to an external amp. For 500 you could get a pretty nice 2-ch amp, then eventually add a similar quality preamp. If you are patient, you might find an Aragon 4004, McCormack DNA .5, Anthem 1, Bryston 3B, etc