1. It sounds like your only source is CD, is that correct? If so, why not do what (it sounds like) you really want to do & get the best power amp you can afford--& plan on getting a CDP w/built in volume control.
2. I'm sure you realize you can move up in quality a LOT by buying used. For less than $1000 used you can get a C-J MF2250 (SS), or a VTL ST-85 (tube), both sweet power amps for the $$ (just 2 out of many many ideas I'm sure).
3. Totally contradicting what I said in (1), I agree with those urging you towards an integrated. Saying that "Integrateds are ultimately a compromise at some level"......well, yeah, at SOME level, sure, probably. But I think that level is a long way from anything you're even contemplating now. What about a used Classe' 150 or 151 Integrated? You can use either the pre-amp or power amp section separately, so you can try out different pre-amps (or power amps) when you get the urge......
2. I'm sure you realize you can move up in quality a LOT by buying used. For less than $1000 used you can get a C-J MF2250 (SS), or a VTL ST-85 (tube), both sweet power amps for the $$ (just 2 out of many many ideas I'm sure).
3. Totally contradicting what I said in (1), I agree with those urging you towards an integrated. Saying that "Integrateds are ultimately a compromise at some level"......well, yeah, at SOME level, sure, probably. But I think that level is a long way from anything you're even contemplating now. What about a used Classe' 150 or 151 Integrated? You can use either the pre-amp or power amp section separately, so you can try out different pre-amps (or power amps) when you get the urge......