Looking for an amp that punches way about its weight and I can grow with


So recently I purchase a McIntosh MC300 from a reputable dealer and got it and plugged it in and turned it and a nice arc/small flame came out the top and then the amp no longer worked.  So I am sending it back, and sending back a McIntosh is no funny it is too heavy and there are too may boxes!!!  Anyway this have given me time to think and do a lot more reading and I find this forum has some very open views on their thoughts which I love.  So that being said I am looking for an amp that punches way above its weight.  They will be driving Martin Logan Electromotion ESL's.  I know that electrostatic speakers require amps over watts (I think that is what I have be reading but I am still learning)

So a couple of the important details; my budget is around $3000 with a little wiggle room.  The rest of my system is as follows: SOTA Sapphire VI turntable, McIntosh MP100 Phono pre, Schiit Feya+ tube rolled pre.  90% of the music I listen to is Rock the other 10% is Jazz.  I am looking for something that will last me awhile and be great for a Martin Logan upgrade at some point.  I have been looking at some stuff by Rogue and Odyssey but dont know the brands well.  I also live out on the middle of nowhere and all I really have available to listen to is McIntosh.  So any feedback would be greatly appreciated.   
128x128justinrphillips
I also say go with Odyssey. I've had mine for just under a year and find it has a HUGE bang per buck.

Good luck on your audio "odyssey"! (Sorry, couldn't resist)
+1 to those who suggested Rogue. I have a Stereo 100 driven by a Rogue RP7. Amperex 7316 + Amperex Bugle Boys in the RP7, Amperex long plate 12AX7 + Mazda long plates 12AU7 in the Stereo 100. Speakers are Legacy Signature SE (4 ohm). There are times I can’t believe how good this sounds. Rich, detailed, spot on treble decay, bass for days if called for. I literally have no desire to change anything anytime soon. Of course most in this thread will suggest what they own or have had lots of experience with... guilty! I had a Parasound Hint with Tannoys before this. That was no slouch either, but holds no candle to my setup now.  I know one can get MUCH higher end amps, but I'm good for now, and indefinitely. Famous last words?

+1 Odyssey
Alon Wolf of Magico speakers likes and has used Odyssey amps.  Magico uses cutting edge technology and are among the best of the very best speakers available today.  
Unison Research Unico may fit the bill....I know where you can still get one NOS new in box, $2k...dynamic class A at first then 80 watts total. Two 12au7’s in preamp section, Italian made...a gorgeous integrated amp. 6 moon wrote up a great review on it, and it was chosen product of the year....its now 20 years old, but I’d take a chance with it with a good warranty....it preceded the Unico Primo....