Hi Bruce:
We are about the same age with the same musical tastes. I've been dabbling in this hobby for 40+ years not that it qualifies me in any way as an expert. I could tell you a thing or two that you probably shouldn't do however. I'm also very familiar with your speakers (I owned them for awhile) and coincidentally own a CJ 2250, currently used to power my surrounds. I only tell you all this so you understand where I'm coming from with my comments.
I don't recall reading if you have a 2 channel or surround channel system? If by chance it is 2 channel, my recommendation would be sell the Arcam and buy an integrated amp. I've owned among others, CJ (tubes)and Plinius (SS). Either a tube or SS unit could match up very nicely with your speakers. There are many models to choose either new or used in your price range (particularity after you sell the Arcam). Personal favorites of mine in your price range used are the CJ CAV50, although that model is getting pretty old now so you'd have to be careful, or the Plinius 9100.
If you have a surround system, I think the biggest bang for your buck would come from a 2ch. amp. Sure the preamp makes a huge difference in music. I also wholeheartedly agree that using a receiver as a preamp leaves a lot to be desired, but given your budget I don't believe you'll find both a decent preamp and amp unless you're willing to invest more. The CJ 2250 is an amp that would get my vote and would mate nicely with your speakers. Again many others to choose from.
Hope this helps.
Mark
We are about the same age with the same musical tastes. I've been dabbling in this hobby for 40+ years not that it qualifies me in any way as an expert. I could tell you a thing or two that you probably shouldn't do however. I'm also very familiar with your speakers (I owned them for awhile) and coincidentally own a CJ 2250, currently used to power my surrounds. I only tell you all this so you understand where I'm coming from with my comments.
I don't recall reading if you have a 2 channel or surround channel system? If by chance it is 2 channel, my recommendation would be sell the Arcam and buy an integrated amp. I've owned among others, CJ (tubes)and Plinius (SS). Either a tube or SS unit could match up very nicely with your speakers. There are many models to choose either new or used in your price range (particularity after you sell the Arcam). Personal favorites of mine in your price range used are the CJ CAV50, although that model is getting pretty old now so you'd have to be careful, or the Plinius 9100.
If you have a surround system, I think the biggest bang for your buck would come from a 2ch. amp. Sure the preamp makes a huge difference in music. I also wholeheartedly agree that using a receiver as a preamp leaves a lot to be desired, but given your budget I don't believe you'll find both a decent preamp and amp unless you're willing to invest more. The CJ 2250 is an amp that would get my vote and would mate nicely with your speakers. Again many others to choose from.
Hope this helps.
Mark