Casual,
I am in the same boat is you. I have been running a 7 channel with a sunfire for my main 5 and chiro for the two side surrounds. On your list the only other I tried was the rotel and was not crazy about it. The Sunfire I prefered over several cause its laid back sound and for home theater that was important to me.
Others I tried was the Theta which I could not stand. Its upper frequecies where a little to pronounced...hurt the ears. It did have a bit more air then the sunfire though.
I thought the anthem was a really nice amp for the money.
I am now looking to taking the sunfire and chiro out and get one 7 channel instead for room reasons. How about the earthquake guys?? Home theater had it as their #1 amp. It is suppose to be good in 2 channel. Thats one I am thinking of.
Dlstephenson, you really peaked my interest in this Butler Hybrid. Never heard of it but the tube sound caught my interest, which is why I like the sunfire.
Happy listening...