Hi Glen
Enjoy the quest!
I have listen to some Moon gear wasn’t for me. And Rega’s new stuff again not for me. Naim, Linn pass not for me, been there done that not my cup of tea. looking for;Of the integrateds I’ve auditioned, the following fit your bill, your preferences, and your budget
Dynamics, good bass control but good separation of notes, sweet top end that’s not edgy or overly bright, midrange that’s involving, huge soundstage maybe the word musical comes to mind. I tend to a slightly warmer side of neutral but not too much.
- Accuphase 600 series (you should be OK with the 30W model)
- MF Nuvista 6000
- Pass Int 60
- ATC - SIA2-100 (well within yr budget)
- Luxman 590
Enjoy the quest!