Advice on a 5-channel amplifier or possibly a 3-Channel/2-Channel Combo Upgrade

Hello,

I am seeking advice on a 5-channel amplifier or possibly a 3-Channel/2-Channel combo.

I have the following components today:

• RX-A1070 ADVENTAGE Yamaha
• UDP-205 OPPO 4K
• Parasound P 7
• Outlaw 7200
• Paradigm Prestige 95F, 55C, & 25S

My budget is up to $3700+/- . I don’t mind buying refurbished with some form of warranty, but I want to avoid a used private party purchase. I don’t intend to audition, though a good return policy would be of benefit. In other words, I don’t have to demo/try before I buy. I travel a lot and honestly don’t feel like I have great ears for music. So I mostly rely on extensive reading of reviews and on-line communities for purchases. I try (as best I can) to have a balanced system in terms of component costs/quality. In other words, over time I like to ensure that I invest in individual components that are all generally in the same zone of quality/workmanship/performance of the other components in my system.

I am redeploying my Outlaw 7200 to my secondary sound system.

I primarily listen to classic rock and like my system to be optimized/oriented to surround music. I have a lot of classic rock SACD, SACD Surround, DVD-A, and 5.1 Blu-ray Music. I also like 5.1 Sci-Fi movies. This system is my main sound system but not used heavily, roughly several times a month. 2 channel is typically just for SACDs or CDs. Later, I likely will do some high-resolution 2-channel streaming.

I think I like neutral sound. I do have an interest in an amp that is “quiet”. But as I mentioned before, I don’t think I have great ears for being able to pick out what’s missing or wrong in sound or how it might be improved. The best I can do is I know when things are all working well and sounding well when I sit back and listen to Dark Side of the Moon in 5.1 SACD or Sea Change in 5.1 DVD-A.

My initial research suggests Anthem A5, Anthem MCA 525, Emotiva XPA, or Parasound A51. However, I am not married to these brands and would very much welcome other ideas.

I’m looking for multi-channel amplication (5) that you believe works well for the type of speakers I have and the type of music I listen to and of course, any other suggestions you might have.  Thank you!!

Leadercrat