Yet another Integrated vs Separates advice post


Hey Audiogon! Help me spend my money.

I've recently upgraded my speakers and analog rig and it now has me wondering if I could be getting more out of my amplification section. I've had a trusty Hegel H200 integrated amp for about 6 years and it's to its testament that until now I haven't thought about upgrading it. But the upgraditis is getting to me, especially after my analog section has taken me into a different tier on the source side.

My questions:

If my goal is to move into the "reference" quality tier (and by that I guess I mean, at least providing a sniff of the creme de la creme; Stereophile Class A-quality for lack of a better way to put it), should I take this opportunity to move back into separates? 

Second question: if my budget is around $7k, what should I consider that would be a significant upgrade over the giant-killing Hegel? Some components I'm considering:

For separates, PS Audio BHK preamp + PS Audio Stellar Monoblocks (though I'm hesitant about class D amps)
For integrated, Aesthetix Mimas, or a Luxman integrated
Someone in the running: integrateds from Krell, Mark Levinson, and Ayre

My requirements: my rack limits me to standard-sized 17"-wide components. I need at least 2 balanced inputs unless there's a built-in DAC. I mainly seek a "warm" tonality with rich midrange, and greatly value components that image exceptionally well.

My system: Hegel H200, Doge 7 DAC, Avid Volvere turntable, PS Audio Stellar phono preamp, Egglestonworks Emma speaker
hudsonhawk
I have been the "separates" route with lots of boxes on lots of shelves. Now I have a fairly simple set up (only two boxes) and have no desire to have a forest of cables ever again. IMO, separates are great if you change gear regularly or are a reviewer.
If your speakers don't need more power then stick with what you have. If you want to really upgrade then up you price point significantly.
I love Luxman gear but I wanted an integrated amp that could drive my stupidly inefficient (down to 2Ω) Shahinian Obelisks. I also prefer tube preamps and balanced inputs. I found a clean, used BAT VK-300x (6922 tube version) for a song on fleabay. Works great. So great, in fact, that I am thinking of demoing a new VK-3000SE. I do prefer the sound of 6922 tubes to 6H30s but we'll see.

The Denon pma sx-11 from Japan 
        Best of both worlds
                Best kept secret