Integrated Recommendation

I was also thinking about the Rogue Sphinx. Would seem to be a very good fit at the price point. I have not heard that unit specifically yet but am a fan of the tube/Class D hybrid approach and Rogue's amps that I have heard in general. Rogue tends to offer top notch value for tube amp gear.

Thanks for all the suggestions!

I also like the hybrid options, but worry that the suggestions (Rogue, Unison) lack the required grunt for the Mani 2.

The ROgue specs I've read indicate doubling power output from 100 watts into 8 ohm to 200 into 4 ohms. That's not a guarantee but a good omen for getting good performance out of the Manis.

Class D amps require less beefy power supplies in order to do that than most amps which makes ones that do good candidates on paper for demanding loads on a budget.

But the Manis are only 85 db efficient, so yes, ability to go louder and clear could be limited.

You would probably have to go used to do better/go louder. The more powerful MF would be a good choice for that.

Frankly, I think you might be better off going with a used power amp and separate pre-amp with hard to drive speakers like the Manis. Integrateds, especially less expensive ones, tend to not have the beefy power supplies needed for high power and current delivery. Class D integrateds, like those from Wyred maybe, might have the best chance and might be had used.

For separates, you might for example try a d-sonic class D amp used or new and match that to an affordable separate pre-amp within your price range.

I'd shoot for whatever you can find in your budget that features a 250w/ch power amp or more if possible, plus good current delivery ability. That's the main and most straightforward thing to get right first.

Mdooty-If you like the hybrid option consider a 2nd hand Valve Audio-Predator. I own one and trust me it has plenty of watts/current. The Predator is very neutral, tube rolling can help dial it in with your speakers. The only major weakness(have not tried 7308 tubes) with the Predator is it's not the most "open" sounding amp but that's a minor issue when considering cost. FWIW i've heard several of the amps mentioned and the Predator is superior.

Before I settled into my Rogue M-180's I was driving my Mani-2's with a Wyred4Sound STI-500 (550W into 4 ohms). It had great, tight bass control which, if your environment is anything like mine, the Manis will love. The upper end was razor sharp in detail. No onboard phono stage, but that's not a very difficult problem to solve. I really liked it a lot, but I got a case of upgrade fever when I found the Rogues at a price I couldn't refuse.
The W4S is currently in my second system, but I've been thinking of selling it since it doesn't get much use. I'll be listing it sooner or later, but if you have an interest let me know and I'll get off my butt and do it sooner.
Jerry