preamp/amp or integrated? That is the question

Sugden A21 SE integrated. This piece is voiced well enough for symphonies as the Class A amp tends a bit toward tube-like smoothness. Being all solid state though, it carries the bite and attack of blues and rock well. It is really really fast. Attack of any instrument is immediate.

Vocals are a dream. Pace and rhythm intact. Beautiful imaging.

It will also drive about any speaker out there to very loud levels with
30 wpc.....remember, it's Class A.

The only thing to be aware of is speaker cable matching. Class A is particular.

Market price is $2500 and yes I owned one for years driving a myriad of speakers from Reference 3A to Merlin monitors.

Good Luck

You might want to check out the offerings of Frank VanAlstine. He makes electronics that function and sound way beyond their pay grade. Check this out:

http://www.avahifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=267&Itemid=229

I listen to: big Symphonies, electric blues, classic rock.

And what speakers do you listen to the above through?
Without knowing what speakers you intend on driving, I'm afraid any recommendation about amps is meaningless.

Speakers: right now upgrading from my current EPI 400 to
ADS 910.