Plinius Hiato vs MA9000 vs Hegel H360 (powerful integrated amps under 10k with 200 watts)


Looking for an integrated amp under $10K, that can pump at least 200-250watts into 8 ohms. I listen to digital music only (Tidal premium and tidal mostly). I did like McIntosh integrated sound, but didn’t get a chance to compare that to Hiato. I have PMC Twenty5.26, Hiato seems to be good match based on some online forums but no one compared it with other two above. I believe I like a bit warm sounding amp, with heavy weight on the base and bit sound stage (as live as possible in presentation). Amp should sound good at low listening volume levels.

These are low sensitive speakers at 86db, I have noticed that they can use power. On another note, the new Luxman L-509x integrated is getting awesome reviews, but it’s only 120 watts at 8 ohms, wonder if it can give me what I want or whether it is still underpowered... Btw, I currently own a Moon 340i integrated, it is a little underpowered for these PMC’s. And yes, don’t want to spend on that Diablo 300 or the pass labs 250 yet...not that kind of money...not yet.. I live in NZ and Plinius gives us a lot more value for money here (if that makes sense). Here MA9000 is twice more expensive than Hiato. Just trying to compare value vs performance with MA9000. Hegel H360 vs Hiato are in the same price bracket, I am assuming Hiato easily beats H360, I am not sure though.

Any valuable input (on these options or other alternative better options) will be appreciated.

cad13
I totally agree with denon1 on the characteristics of the Plinius.  I had to let mine go for a very low price.  However, Hegel H360 never sounds analytical to me though.  I guess it's totally system dependent.  The H360 sounds refined, airy, musical, and yet powerful.  It drove my Von Schweikert Endeavor E-3 Mk2 speakers with ease.  Lots of dynamic, detail, clarity, and bass.  If it has the same built quality as the other elite amps, then I am sure the retail price will not only be $6,000.   
@denon1 thanks for your input. 509x looks beautiful, everyone is in love with this.

Who’s got the detail on how high output vs low output pros when you are listening at low to moderate volume levels. Let’s say you want a warm and forward presentation (not treble heavy, but big sound stage) would high output give that? I am assuming high output gives a more rounded bass/slam on bottom end.

@denon1
how do you compare 509x to Diablo 300 or pass 250 at those listening levels? Any input there? Let’s assume I don’t need the extra power as I won’t usually have parties at my place. Btw here 509 is half in price compared to Diablo 300 or PL 250 here. 

@respected_ent appreciate your input. I don’t think anything comes close to h360 in the value/performance sweet spot. I have to hear it and figure out how it sounds in my system. Btw, a couple of great pro reviews on my PMC 25.26 used Hiato, they said it’s the deal.. which is interesting as these PMC’s are dynamic and fast as well. And I would think a warm amp suits well with dynamic speakers (or vice versa). I spoke to PMC in UK too, they said plinius should work well..



And btw, any tube integrated amps to drive these PMC’s? Can PL dialogue HP drive these? I am assuming not... 

How about Audio Research GSI73? 5 star review on what hifi... and powerful enough too I think. Any input anyone?
I drive 4ohm 87 dB sensitive speakers all day with a pl hp with kt-150 tubes. It’ll drive almost any speaker. 100wpc tube amp gas quite some power compared to ss. Has much longer legs than ss imo.