best budget integrated amp for rock n roll music?

Thanks for the reply. You are correct when you state that I should have qualified my statement. Actually, right after I posted my original message, I re-read it and thought to myself, "Uh-oh, this might be taken the wrong way." Sure enough, it was.

As you stated, we as industry members do have additional responsibility concerning our conduct. It is critical that we behave in a most ethical and professional manor. To not do so hurts everyone in our profession. I most sincerely apologize if I have offended anyone or if any of my statements seemed unethical, as it was most certainly not intended.

...Mike - Father & Son Audio

All the comments are worth noting. I had the Audio Refinement Complete for about 1 year, and it was a marvelous unit sonically and functionally. I sold it and bought the Mcintosh MA 6450 integrated amp...WOW!! The Mac has phenomenal sound, build quality, and function. I wanted the exotic, imported, audiophile brands, and the best unit was right here in the good ol' U.S.A. Go listen to, and operate a Mcintosh. Worth every dollar, and then some.

Best Regards,
Bennett

I could add the Densen Beat series... have also liked the "rocking" abilities of the rega, cyrus, & mfd -- but pls note, I have never listened to any of these machines with your speakers!

Finally, a (very) long shot: a used model "RG9" made by Symphonic Line. I has great sound & excellent rocking abilities -- and it's pricey, new.
Hence the long shot!

The Mistral is a bad little man. A couple years ago I heard it with a CD12 driving a pair of $4500 Ruark 3-ways, and, man, great tone, very potent, and smooth. They never told me the price of it, but I would of died if they said, "$995". I bought the pre a few months ago, used, based on on that audition. Great products. Good to see Mistral getting some lip service.

I love the Puccini but it's strength is not speed and bass kick, so not for the rock and roll lover. For more natural sounding music (classical, jazz, voice), it's hard to beat.
--a