500 to spend on int.amp,help me match with gear.

You really can't go wrong with the Rega. It's very easy to listen to in the long term. It also brings out lots of emotion in the music. However any of the amps you're looking at sould provide an upgrade. You might even be able to find a Naim Nait in your price range.

-Patrick

Creek 4330R MKII, new $599, used would be in your price range.

Matty

At the risk of appearing self serving (I have an item up for auction here on Audiogon that would profit form the folowing recommendation) may I suggest you consider separates at this price point. Besides some technical advantages separates would permit you the opportunity to customize your system and allow for greater flexibility for future upgrades.

There is a used Nak ta3a available on gon for 400 i think.

I second the Audio Refinement, one day my friends and I compared one to a Levinson 383 ($6000) and while the Levinson was better (with B&W 803's) we were all amazed that the Audio Refinement was not only listenable but had at least 80% of the detail and tone of the Levinson. Not to mention it seemed quite powerful too.

hope this helps