Marantz PM10 class D amp

You have a fair point in principle but its certainly better than making statements/comparisons just based on on-paper measurements. If you spend the time to go and listen to different component combinations instead of looking at the specs, then your ears will be able to tell the difference. For example, I have heard the GE Reference speakers paired with other amps/preamps like McIntosh and Rogue tube amps and they sounded nowhere as hyper detailed and dry. Some people may prefer that sound.

I agree with you. In real life, there is no way we can have a fully controlled observation. The best we can do is a subjective comparison between different setup. For example, I cannot just walk into a dealer and demand that the dealer swap out multiple amps for a demo if each amps weight more than 100 lbs. There is no way he can swap and carry things around like that. 

Also, using KEF ref1s is my requirement. I am not going to exchange these speakers for anything else. 

I have tried active speakers and like none of them. So, they are way outside of the discussion. 

Don't have direct experience to share regarding these amps but I would echo what @kalali said about specs. Take audiosciencereview with a grain of salt, at best. Measurements can be important but some people "listen" only with measurements. Stack measurements of a decent turntable up against a 1985 CD player and it will look like the CD player absolutely blows it away. Listening will reveal a different answer. Given near universal praise of the Lyngdorf, ASR wouldn't disqualify it in my book. To each his own...

Have you considered the Parasound HINT 6 integrated?

35 years on now
the world belonged to the brave who embraced
the new
perfect music forever
and the sweetest revenge
is the new kids
love Vinyl..

so specs will take you so far..
listen a bit

have fun

leave the spiritual arguments behind..the music is what matters...

jnehma….."Don’t have direct experience to share regarding these amps but I would echo what @kalali said about specs. Take audiosciencereview with a grain of salt, at best."

I would take this another step farther. I had never heard of this website called audiosciencereview until a few weeks ago. I then read a review they did on the Nuforce STA200, a $499 amplifier (not class D) sold by Audio Advisor. Audiosciencereview gave this amplifier the worst possible review that can be imagined, just trashed it. If you take a look at the customer reviews on Audio Advisor and a thread here (started by myself prior to purchase) you will find everyone loves this beautiful little amp.

Based on the above, I will give weight to the opinions of those who have actual experience with a piece of equipment, and none to the recommendations based on that website or other reading.