The best integrated amplifier

I recommend adding the Boulder 865 to your list. I prefered it to the Pass integrateds - better resolution and more alive sounding. Different strokes for different folks. Haven't heard that particular Simaudio unit, but in general I have found their stuff to be lower res sounding and more "wooly" than some of the other brands on the list. Just my 2 cents.

I second the Luxman. I "downgraded" to a Luxman L-550AX about a month ago (20 W class A, no tube hassle), it's a beauty. There is a higher power class A (30 W, L-590AX) and a line of other Lux integrateds that are AB (much higher power, like the 509u that another member suggested) I believe. Some useful features for me at least include a MC Phono stage, a loudness control, headphone jack (late night listening). But its the sound that makes the Lux special. Driving Gallo Ref 3.5 speakers, I feel no need at all for more power (but I do have a fairly small listening space). If you're not familiar with the brand, check out their web site. And they have big meters that light up (ala McIntosh).

Toronto416

I just received a 509U, have some questions about it (no owners manual, etc), wonder if you would be so kind to answer based on your having the unit.

Ive heard amazing things about the Luxman. That's on my very short list. I'm waiting for the Ayre AX-5 to be released before I take the plunge. You cant go wrong with Luxman. Let us know your impressions.

Well, its been a month. I was initially very disappointed, the music was harsh, hard to listen to. I decided to play the unit non-stop for about 10 days and now find it pretty great. I initially regretted the purchase but after an extended "burn-in" could not be much more pleased. I went for this unit to decrease the number of boxes in front of me plus to have the option of a subtle treble tone control to help make so many CDs listenable. Recommended.