The best integrated amplifier

Hi all
Thanks for the response so far. I would like to stick with solid state, really can't see me messing around with tubes.

In the long run I don't feel the Esoteric speakers are for me. What they do with simple type music they do extremely well but I don't think they will ever rock. So this is a longer term plan - get the best out of them for now with a better amp and then go for speakers so I will be auditioning amps along side speakers.

I have quite a large room (by European standards) and am really looking for a set up that will bring the best out from all types of music not just a head banging type system.

There is a chance of a pair of GamuT L7 speakers at a really god price so it would be interesting to hear these along side the GammuT amp.

check out the cayin 100, great sound, great value.

Zeke, the amps you have listed are not so powerful risking you leave speakers underpowered. For what it's worth, JRDG C-500 give you much more power. Compairing a more powerful amp to a lesser, should probably make you nod towards to one with more power. JRDG won't give you a "bloom" but rely more on your cdp and speaker cable to set the sonic ideal. C-500 is very neutral but not sharp. If you have a large room, i would not go for those you listed. I would myself try the C-500 and a wise choice of speaker cable. Next step from that is a combo of pre/power amps.

Luxman should be on this list.

Teajay, have you heard the new Modwright 200? That is one nice looking integrated and whats more is something like that can really simplify ones system. Of course you can get the preamp/Amp in one box but also a USB DAC too. I know it is 200 watts, which is great, but what about current?

If you don't add Ayre to your audition list, you would be doing yourself a great disservice.