Best Integrated, period.

That's exactly what I'm wondering too Pubul57. I really would love to hear from someone who's heard those luxman A/B amps on the Merlin speakers.

Arte Forma Audio Susan with remote controlled Dual lightspeed attenuators will be coming on the market at the end of this month. From what I heard on the forums these lightspeed passive attenuator preamps sound alot better after you put them (inside a amp)! Keep a close eye on this Integrated amp it just might be the best to come on the market yet !!

I have no idea what is best. I do know that I am very happy with my Rowland Continuum 500. It has the blackest background and is really easy to listen to. I've compared it to a few other pricey integrated amps and it easily won out for me. I wish I could hear half of the amps mentioned in this thread as I bet they are killer. One of these days, I'd like go pick up a tube integrated for my bedroom system. I should mention that the Continuum replaced a VTL pre/power.

Lfd ncse! Just kidding. Superb for me, but it's in the eye or ear of the beholder...

I second Notec on the Leben. I just auditioned one in the past week, but its smaller bro: check out this superb review.
http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/leben/cs300x.html
Pricey, but is extremely high quality and will last a lifetime...note the point to point wiring. If too expensive, consider a cheep interim solution like an NAD320BEEE and patiently wait to pounce a on a good deal for your dream.