Search for miracle integrated


Hello All,

I'm on a search for a very specific type of integrated. I am upgrading my system from the top of the stream down. I go all digital / Lossless quality or higher so the logical start was with the DAC. I just received my Yggdrasil which I absolutely LOVE and feel that I got a much better value than I was expecting (even with all the praise online it met and exceeded my expectations).

My quest continues with the integrated. I am looking for a company that spends very little on marketing and works to move as much of the value for the money to the product itself. Very high value is important to me, I want to get value above the price and I don't want to pay for anything I don't need (such as a built-in DAC as I already have one). The more musical and the higher the clarity the better. My short list is pretty short- the SimAudio Moon 600i and Ayre's integrated.  Some other factors are below. I typically buy new but I'm open to a good value in a used product as well.

Budget (only for the integrated): $8K+/-
Music preference: classical, light rock, pop
End speakers:  It is between Accoustic Zen Crescendo / Vandy Quatros / Wilson Sophias / Revel Salon Ultimas 
Power: 150 WPC+ into 8 ohm

xerotrace
I'd make every effort to find a used Dartzeel CTH 8550. You'd be set for many years. I can say with certainty that it will compete with virtually any audio gear out there. Herve the designer is a genius and fine gentleman. Check with Blue Light Audio as demos or used are sometimes available. I don't own one BTW. IMO worth stretching for. 
If looking at 2nd hand integrateds, you should also seek out the Vitus SIA-025 which offers musical, liquid/smooth Class A sound, and is fast, detailed & has wide bandwidth. Though they rarely appear on the 2nd hand market in the US however due to limited Dealers over here & folks tend to keep them. You will need to up your budget above $8k however as the SIA-025 retails around $23-24k in the US.
See if you can audition the latest Accuphase integrated, the E-470. Full featured, built like a tank with excellent sonic characteristics.

These don’t come up on the used market that often. List new is $12,000.

I'm an Ayre devotee for a few years (all my electronics are Ayre seperates).  They are very customer sensitive and always are there for help.  (I've only done offered updates.....the units have been rock solid)
How about a used Krell FBI. It's Class A. Designed by D'agostino. Check out the reviews.  I know Streophile reviewed it, but not sure who else may have.  I would think 8K would buy one in good condition. I know it's not by an "unknown" company but it is an excellent integrated.