Best Integrated that you've heard under $5k

The only one I have heard, thus the absolute best without question:

my Cayin A88T (I got version 1 for 16 ohm taps). Just biased (internal adjusters) by VAS. Version 2 and 3 omit the16 ohm tap and add external bias control. This review is why I took a chance, darn glad I did!

https://6moons.com/audioreviews/cayin/a88t.html

I prefer KT88’s to optional 6550’s,

I prefer ultra-linear mode (45 wpc) rather than it’s optional triode mode (22wpc) which can be remotely toggled, thus easy to compare. You don’t hear more volume when you switch, just a slight difference is sound characteristic.

Awesome build quality and sound. Happily it sounds like my 1958 Vintage Fisher 80Z tube monos, but with the modern features of an integrated and remote.

If I didn’t need 16 ohm, I would definitely want to hear a Raven with the built in optional crossover for a sub.

I should have added the CODA CSiB integrated that I sold and bought the CODA separates. The CSiB is an excellent sounding piece.

The KRELL K-300i I linked above is smoother (Class A first 90 watts) and is being compared favorably to $13450 Boulder and $40K D’Agastino on Stereophile. I put mine up for sale last week to raise some cash for another upgrade and then came to my senses. I removed the ad.

I think Musical Fidelity makes incredible sounding stuff...I had an m5si and kind of bummed I sold it. Muscular, meaty sound but stays delicate enough on the highs.
Would love to hear some of their higher-end stuff...

Tubes, Quicksilver Integrated, Raven Audio Blackhawk, Pathos Logos MKII and Pathos Classic Re-Mix In Pol. (Pathos are Hybrid)

SS, Simaudio 204I and 340i, Belles Aria, AVA DVA M225's (AMAZING). Had an NAD M10 that was fun also.

Now spend a bit more $6500 to $7500 (now) the Audio Hungary Qualiton X200.

Simaudio has some good integrated that shocked me when I learned their price.

Rega has some nice integrated as well.

And NAD was my first integrated and that brought me years of enjoyment.