I was thinking about the new S300i, although i dont like the design and build quality comparing to 400xi. Did you have a chance to audition one or compare to 400xi? I think there is at least one member here on audiogon that changed his 400xi for s300i and came back to the 400 after all.
That must have been Dave. I strongly disagree with his opinion, and so do several reviews I have read. I have 400xi and S300i on hand as I write.
IMO S300i is a much better amp than 400xi, more natural, less forced, with superior resolution and sound stage depth. Like you, I think 400xi is more handsome and its chassis is better build - S300i on the other hand is bigger, heavier and more feature packed.