Who to trust when buying vintage ss ?

Older NAD integrated amps from the 90's are an easy recommendation. They are fairly reliable and able to drive 2 ohms - something which the other amps from that era can't do - and sound superb! I have one in my collection, along with its cousin the  Proton integrated.

For some excellent box speakers I suggest old ADS's like the 410, 510, 710 and up! They are easy to drive and fairly efficient.

Myriad of options out there for a suitable integrated amp that will easily best the HK include inter alia, my budget fave …the REGA BRIO integrated amp.

https://www.whathifi.com/rega/brio/review

To save money, buy pre-owned …. Many other quality brands pre-owned out there that include ROTEL, NAD, ARCAM, CREEK, CYRUS, ROKSAN , MUSIC FIDELITY, LINN, etc.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/classifieds/56-solid-state-integrated-amplifiers/?filter=FOR+SALE&province=&price_min=&price_max=&photo=N&show_msrp=N&show_other_marts=N

All components have their own bespoke sonic signature , so formulate a proper plan FIRST that also includes a preferred source, speakers, and cables. System synergy matters … full stop.

for the REGA BRIO, think preowned REGA R1/ RS1/ RX1 model bookshelf speakers (all preowned) for a dynamite system.

https://v2.stereotimes.com/post/the-rega-r1-loudspeaker#:~:text=The%20Rega%20R1%20becomes%20my,what%20more%20could%20you%20want%3F

For example. the NAD amps typically have a darker presentation with a rolled off top end. Not all speakers work well with it. (One that does is PSB speakers) The MUSIC FIDELITY can sound bright with certain brand speakers etc.

Roll up your sleeves , read some reviews, do some auditions , and engage your plan.

A lazy man’s default to Best Buy is a banishment to mostly low-fi, maybe lucky to a low-end mid-fi, and regrettably not hi-fi. Choose wisely.

@tonydennison,

I would look at Schiit Audio:

Mike

https://www.schiit.com/products/freya-n