best Integrated amp under 4000$

I had the VSI-55 and found it had a great 3d picture and great bass authority. I eventually found that I wasn't listening to the cd's in my collection that have great vocals, soloists, or small jazz.

I think it had to do with a slight lack of midrange texture that I find important. I changed the stock tubes and it was better still a little cool. I decided to change it for another amp.

I think it is a very fine amp but it didn't have the mids and the transparency I wanted. Perhaps a mismatch in my system. You can pick up a slightly used vsi-55 for around 2k. I've heard the better ARC reference stuff in a few systems and was very impressed with all aspects.

What did you end up getting?

VAC Avatar SE. I changed out the stock tubes with NOS Bugle Boy (don't remember specifics). Are you sure a tube amp can drive those speakers? 87db, do you know the impedance curve?

Can you try to bring a couple of amps home for a few days?

i owned the vsi55 & agree w/all the comments posted recently,,,,alittle hot on the top end & lacking midrange texture, great bass & drive though.......all in all a little dry & not quite 20/20 vision if you know what i'm trying to relate. a cary sli-80 walks all over it for musicality & refinement however probably doesn't have the horsepower req'd for totems. perhaps a bat integrated?

Luxman's 100 watt or 20 Class A or McIntosh 6300.