Tough amp decision

No offense to the Mac crowd, but they have maintained their house sound to the detriment of a more modern taste in sound presentation. I personally find Mac veiled and muddy in comparison to newer designs. I prefer greater neutrality than Mac but also more engagement like Pass Labs, Classe’, Hegel (cheaper option). I have not heard the Parasound but the JC5 would probably be the only one I would consider. I suspect the Mac and the JC5 will be polar opposites in terms of presentation so I’m a little confused by the OP’s selection of these Amps. The Qutest is also not the last word in modern DAC presentation (old school and a little sterile in comparison to say an R2R DAC sounds). My suggestion is to broaden your parameters and see what more modern gear offers these days.

Also a Hoosier! Beat Purdue!!

You absolutely have to listen to the Mc and Parasound.  They don't sound alike at all to me.

Other brands to consider:  Ayre, Luxman.

Comparing the JC5 and the Mcintoshes precisely because they are so different. Not so easy for me to get to a dealer and have to screen based on reading (and what you say!). Everything seems to point to Qutest being better than the McIntosh internal DAC. In the long run think I will go separates due to versatility and better sound quality given what I already have. Was hoping to extract pieces for a second system, but would kick myself later. Several folks say the standalone amp with my pre would sound better than the integrateds. 

McIntosh Have a unique sound and look that some prefer, but it seemingly doesn’t compete well with top rated brand/models.

An integrated saves $ on casework and cables, but is less flexible for future upgrades.

Generally speaking, tube gear has a much warmer midrange that many find attractive, but it’s often not a sound reflective of live music. Also, the highs may be limited and the bass slower and and less defined than SS. SS usually has a more linear frequency response aka less coloring, is quicker, and maybe more accurate than tubes.

The OP seems somewhat undecided on tubes vs SS, and integrated vs separates.

If the OP has to purchase without auditioning first, then maybe a safe bet would be a Hegel H390 or the older H360 integrated which has a good sounding DAC.  Hegel receives many positive reviews.  Buying used will save you significant $.

OP,

If you are not near a dealer, I recommend  weekend trip to a city. Make it a fun mini-vacation. Set up appointments with a couple audio dealers… say you are from out of town. Have them setup and ready when you arrive. If you take your partner plan on dinner and some evening activity.