I got around $2000 to play with....

The new Onkyo Class D integrated (I forget the model #) $600 new and have seen for $400 used, a used Denon 2910 (a steal at current prices), a pair of Totem or Dynaudio monitors (used of course)and add some decent budget cables. Money left over. Done for a while. Add a decent DAC later.

I also like Sufentanil's MF integrated amp suggestion. Personally I would can the MH CD25 . I would rather have the Denon for the money. If you want to step the CD player up a bit go with the Rega Apollo or an Arcam CD23.

May I remind you that the McCormack Line Drive would add just one small box and just one set of preferably short interconnects, heck it doesn't even have a power cord. The rather small increase in complexity would most probably be offset by a rather large increase in performance. Considering the incredible number of Vandy 2's sold, you could probably find a used pair locally, so there might be little need for concern regarding shipping. Good luck.

I'd second Hoopster's recommendation of a used Denon 2910 and the Onkyo A-9555 integrated. I own both and together they'd be extremely good for the money, leaving more of your budget for the speakers where a few more dollars will give you a wider choice and potentially greater impact on the overall sound.

The Onkyo A-9555 is $500 new at Amazon or $400 refurbished at accessories4less.

Thanks all for the tips. Why the Onkyo over the MH? Are the components better? What type of difference would I hear in the sound?

One other question - assuming I go with the Onkyo 9555 amp, how do you all feel about pairing that with the Music Hall cd 25.2 or should I match it with the Onkyo cd player 7555?