Hi. Older duffer with about 40 years in "the chase." Sorry about your experiences with NAD. A few years ago, I had to make a tough call. Had been using a modded Moscode 300 with great success (left up full time) that bellied up. I listen nearfield in a small room and am highly critical. After much search, I found a clean MUSE 160 from a Gon member with a great track record. A couple months in, fireworks from the right channel...surprisingly, the other channel kept playing until I got to the switch. Now what? Years prior (about 7 now) I had read strong positive reviews about the NAD M2 digital box (dac/pre/amp) ...strong across the board around the build, innovation, and of course, the sound. Full retail was $6k, beyond my means. And, yes, I also had heard the negatives around NAD's service ills. Well, as these things go, I was able to find a used one within budget, a tough call considering my recent experience with amps. So far, the gamble has paid off richly. Since then, I also landed an 80's NAD 3140 integrated for the bedroom that has a terrific headphone section. That piece is now driving my son's system, the heart of his recorded music and solid body guitar playback. Folks, this hobby IS a gamble in my experience. I left an Electrocompaniet Ampliwire II (which had a British sports car reputation) on for 20+ years with no issues, VENTED PROPERLY ON ALL SIDES. Remember always, heat is the enemy. Good luck with you future choices...it's all worth it in the end. Best, Norm