Time to make a decision on int amp

Sorry, I meant Spendor A5's

Have you considered using a passive pre with your McCormack?

Unsound: Ironically yes! I was able to borrow the Luminous Technology (Axiom) from Tim Stinson. My concern is that the McCormack is 13 years old and I am ready to make a change and would prefer to try tubes.

As you are purchasing from a local dealer, the thing to do is to bring your speakers in and demo them to see which one you like best. That's exactly the advantage of purchasing from a local dealer - you get to pick something that suits your taste. Opinions may be well meaning, but there's no substitute for listening. Trust your ears.