Best Integrated that you've heard under $5k

The term "integrated" traditionally has been short for "integrated amplifier". However, in the world of digital streaming systems, the part that really matter to SQ and functionality isn't so much the power amp but the pre-amp, along with the DAC. Therefore, it may make sense to focus the integration farther up the chain.  For about $5K or less, there are many good products that integrate streaming, D-A conversion, and pre-amp capabilities (volume control and source-switching).  The Cambridge Audio Edge NQ, for example. Others include the NAD Masters M33, Matrix Audio Element series, iFi Pro iDSD, and Bryston BDA 3.14.  You'll need to pair one of these with a good power amp, but the resulting total cost (and box-count) could wind up in about the same territory as you'd get with an integrated amp and source (e.g. turntable, CD player, or dedicated streamer). 

At some point (say, the next 5-10 years) the integrated amp as we know it may be going the way of the stereo receiver. If you're already marrying source selection and volume control to your streamer/DAC, it is redundant to integrate these functions with the power amp as well.  Separating the power amp then creates opportunities for mono-block or multi-channel configurations, along with the smaller footprint of a modern power amp like the Benchmark AHB2. Or use active speakers, for no visible amplifier footprint at all.

Of course, none of the above applies if you are into vinyl, tubes, and low-wattage SET amps. 

I just bought a Hegel H390 intergraded and am very happy with it.
But like others have said, a lot depends on the speakers you are driving.

Check it out.

JD

The Sugden A21se @ $3250 is quite a bargain. Also, my Marantz pm14s1 @ $3000....both the best I’ve ever owned. Also the Unison Research unico primo and the Naim Nait 5si...Next, I'm going to try a Van Alstine SET 120 control amplifier, just because, only $1199. It should let the source components speak for themselves, as it has only a passive preamp, volume control and input selector. You are hearing only the amp, and from what I’ve read, it’s a great sounding amp. 60 watts @ 8 ohms, 120 into 4....first 10 watts biased class A. Communication with Frank came to a halt when I inquired about a discount, lol.

Van Alstine should either be highly discounted or not bought at all.  You think communication halts when you ask for a discount, just hope you don't have an issue.  You will find that you own a really expensive boat anchor. 

@hoosierinohio I have always received great support and fast response from AVH never an issue nor have I ever had an issue with their gear...
But everyone is challenges these days with staffing, supply-chain and logistics.

Just the facts of life during COVID.