Under 1k integrated recomendations

As mentioned above, the Audio Refinement Complete and the Audio Analogue Puccini SE are two of the finest integrated's avaiable. Especially if you tend to like a smoother, warmer, more laid back sound, both of these amps provide very tube-like sound, even though they are completely solid state. In my opinion, either one of these would outperform the likes of Creek, entry level Musical Fidelity, etc. The only concern might be that both are only ~50 wpc.

I also agree with Drewfidelity... there seem to be a lot of Anthem integrated's at great prices these days. I just saw an INT 2 here on AudiogoN last week go for $550 (retail used to be $1800). The INT 2 is a hybrid, 90wpc, and if you can find one at around that price used, I think it is a steal.

Happy listening!

I'm surprised no one suggested Musical Fidelity A300. Bought one used for $1000 about a year ago, wonderful sound, sweet yet detail. Drives Thiel cs1.5 with plenty of power to spare.

The Audio Refinement keeps coming up and that is a very nice unit. Might also look at the Luxman 491 hybrid with tube preamp and solid state amp. 90 wpc. Some coming through Canada. Hawthorne Stereo in Seattle brings them in and places them on Ebay for around $500.

Another suggestion would be a Naim Nait 2. This model is a couple of years old but can be picked up for around 600$. It's a very musical amplifier with a simple yet functional no-nonsens design (3 inputs + phono, volume and balance control) housed in a small box. Uses DIN outputs, though.

Thanks to all for their suggestions... I went and listened to the Audiomat Arpege at a dealer today. Beautiful amp, I will keep my eye open for a used one.
I also checked out the Bryston which didnt do much for me after the Audiomat, but I will also try and check out the Audio Refinement.
As for the Linn... I used to have one of these without the tuner, but my wife hated the controls. Sonically it was great.
Thanks to all for your suggestions, I feel closer to a decision now.