Solid State Integrated in 1500- 1800 range ?

I should have mentioned that I want this amp to have a phono stage. I will spend up to $2500 as i would like to have it for a long time. I appreciate all the feedback.

MISTRAL SE (definitely!)

If you will spend up to $2500 new and want phono, then add the YBA Integre DT to your list.

Lots of good recommendations. I don't know the size of your room nor listening levels, but some of the respondents may be right that the smaller units may not be satisfactory to you - especially if you go planar. Of the higher output models listed, I know the Classe and Musical Fidelity have phono stages - not sure about all the others. In addition to these rec's, you can usually find a couple Krell 300i's around here. You nay get real lucky and find a used Rowland Concentra at the upper end of your range. You'd keep more options open if you get an outboard phono, or even consider separates. And I know you asked for SS, but if you consider tubes, at this price range a Rogue Tempest is hard to beat and has the features you want. Good luck!

I am adding a second vote for the LFD Mistral SE. I have the one Sam Tellig used for his review (paid $1,250, I think)and I am very happy. The SE is rated for 80 WPC but plays much larger. Mine does not have a phono stage, so I got a Rega FONO (Brit to Brit seems to work the best in my system). This is the only part of my set-up that I am not considering up-grading.

You may want to test drive one to see how it performs with the planars, I am not familiar enough with them to advise one way or the other.

Dave