Integrated Amp advice please someone help me

From personal experience I would say stay away from hybrid designs. I've owned two and didn't care for either one. (Pathos and Anthem). I would also say, start hunting for an Audio Refinement. I have one and it's the best amplifier I've owned. Contrary to what others think, I think this amplifier is not under powered at all. It may have to do with the fact that I live in an apartment, use monitor speakers, and don't play music extremely loud. I'm not real sure. The Musical Fidelity would probably be a good one, but like you, it's a little much for me.

I think you should consider the NAD C370. Nice amp, 120x2, dynamic, very reasonable priced, used $350-$400, new $500-$600. It should be a significant upgrade from the 3020. If bought used you could then spend the rest of your funds on a speaker upgrade. Good luck!

In new price order, I would consider the NAD C320BEE (new $400; 50 wpc); the NAD C370 ($520 new, but damaged carton at yawaonline.com; 120 wpc); or the Musical Fidelity A3 ($850 plus shipping from Upscale audio; 85 wpc). I own the NAD C320BEE and the Musical Fidelity A3 and am happy with both. The C320BEE has a lot of punch, with very good detail and bass for the money (I posted a review of the C320BEE on Agon). The MF A3 brings you from mid-price to high price and represents a real step or so above the 320BEE in terms of getting more ... more depth, more detail, more substance. In both systems, I use Acoustic Research 302 classic series speakers. When buying the amp, make sure that you will have enough power to drive the "TBD" speakers. Regards, Rich

I agree w/the Jolida hybrid int. amp consideration made by Ewha. I own the little 30w 301 and the JD-102b. Both sound very impressive and they are great values. The Jolida 301 for $350 retail is unbeatable for the price IMO. You will not regret buying. My preferences would be in this order; Jolida 301 ($350 New), Nad 320 BEE (if remote/headphone/and more inputs are a concern...New $400. Under $350 through kiefsav.com), Audiolab 8000 (New $1095, selling for $549 now), Rotel RA-02. This is all under $700 New. If you willing to buy used, may I suggest an Arcam Delta 290. I've seen quite a few come on the market lately. Under $400 used. Moving up in $$ you have other excellent choices as mentioned by others. Good Luck. Bill

thanks everyone.

i was considering the Jolida 1501 Hybrid, but have heard that there are build quality issues. as i possessing the DIY skills of an armless chimpanzee, i worry that if something goes wrong i'll be without a system while it is in the shop...
any thoughts?