Advice on a nice integrated is needed

Ggeifman: I´ve owned the AX-7e and found it to be a very nice integrated in its price range and slightly above. But I´m looking for the "best" solution out of an integrated.

Foster 9: I already "enjoyed" the big E-550 and despite its nice build quality and flexibility I stumbled a bit over the quite old fashion looks and the quite boring and sterile sound.

Currently I strongly think about the JRDG 500 but I´m a bit afraid of hifish sound due to its ICE power amp which is said to sound a bit special. I love the looks and the build quality of the Rowland, unfortunately nobody in my area carries this device for listening. Any special comments on the 500 ?

Frankpiet, contact member Guidocorona for comments on the JRDG 500. Since the Accuphase E-550 sounded boring and sterile to you, I'd think something was wrong in that setup. (maybe the amp/speaker match or source) I'd also add the relatively new to the market Esoteric A100 to my audition list as well. Let us know about your decision.

Your note above says you are looking for the "best" solution out of an integrated. Have you looked at Pass Labs’ first integrated amplifier INT-150? I have not heard the unit but it looks very interesting. see
http://passlabs.com/pdf/product%20lit/int-150-lit_lres.pdf

Over on davidmichaelaudio.com they have the "Pass Labs INT-150" and other brand named integrated amps and they say the Luxman L590a mk2 is the best that they have ever heard!.....

I'd consider the VAC Phi Beta as mentioned by Mapman if thinking tubes, or possibly the Ayon Triton. If staying with SS, I'd recommend a Karan KA I-180.

John