Impressions: $1k-$2k integrated amps

@artisonjosh: Don't know which you had but with the  I 20 series (I21-22) etc. I would have to agree.
The 30 series were better in this regard.

Be careful on the power move up within the same company. Sometimes the beguiling character of a lower watt amp gets lost with the higher powered one. 

this curiosity just popped up on eBay, what fun if it sounded good. fun to know about at least

This Vintage Denon Integrated has one phono input and front switched internals for MM 2.5mv sensitivity and MC .125 mv sensitivity.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Denon-PMA-750-Audio-80-Watt-Phono-Turntable-Stereo-Pre-Amplifier/174360505596?hash=item2898b22cfc:g:fGQAAOSwOI5e8Yd4

Very clean, you would need to get seller to ship if for far less money

Denon excerpt: Phono 20-100k, 0.2db

The MC/MM super equalizer is carried and the broadband characteristic of 20Hz-100kHz�}0.2dB is realized.
Composition consists of the NF form direct-current amplifier and CR form equalizing filter by newly developed low noise dual FET, and the first rank serves as dual FET differential amplification of the direct direct-current servo system.

https://audio-database.com/DENON-COLUMBIA/amp/pma-750-e.html

https://www.hifiengine.com/manual_library/denon/pma-750.shtml

Fun!  

With some quick math it was about $1,000 in today's dollar ($350 in 1981)

I've had the Anthem 225 for some years now. Occasionally I get the upgrade bug, but always decide that nothing (under a LOT of $) will be an improvement. Works flawlessly with my Maggies and Golden Ears.