Amplification for Shahinian Obelisks?


Hello there!

I just had my newly-bought second-hand Obelisks overhauled at Shahinian, and now they are on my way to me.

At this stage I am thinking of amplification for them.

I listen mostly to acoustical musiс (Norah Jones, Madeleine Peyroux, and the like), jazz of all sorts, mostly modern ECM-style, also some older Blue Note, and pop music (a lot less). Almost no rock, although it is gaining on me (in the car, though).

I have had several Macs (integrteds and separates), loved their sound, but I want to move forward: Macs' sound is a bit too relaxed for me (although I don't like the sound to be overly crisp). The most important thing for me is musicality and space: I like to listen to music, not sounds.

I want as few boxes as possible, so I want a DAC with an amp in one box. It will be fed through coax or optical from an upgraded 24/96 Sonos.

The contestants at this stage are

1. Electrocompaniet ECI 6 DS
2. Hegel H300
3. Plinius Inspire 980
4. Devialet 120

I am currently leaning towards the Electrocompaniet or Hegel.
Would appreciate your comments on these. Or, maybe, I am missing something here, and there are more choices?

I dont have an opportunity to audition them in my home town, unfortunately, so it will be more or less a blind buy.

Comments from Shahinian owners are more than welcome.

Thanks a lot for your comments!
ja_zz
Bryston 135 plays in that arena, with a ton of current delivery (which the Shahinians need, in spades). Haven't heard that model myself, but their products are generally well regarded, and they have a fabulous service and a 20(!) year warrantee.

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/bryston-b-135-sst2-integrated-amplifier/

I understand your desire for fewer boxes, but one thing to consider is the fact that DAC technology is still evolving, and the upgrade path on an all-in-one is limited...just something to think about. Good luck!
Mdemaio,
Thank you for your suggestion. Bryston is not well represented where I live, unfortunately.
As for separates. .. I have already had the Sonos + CHORD DAC64 + McIntosh separates + Vandersteen 3A Sig setup. Too many boxes/bulk for me.
Sorry, I totally forgot about the Modwright KWI 200...that might be the direction I'd head...