Macintosh MC452 or Mark Levinson 532H

Stick to same manufacturer for the amp and preamp combo. I think it will be better in the long run. Synergy does exist.

Exactly. That's what I've done for years. Works every time.

I also suggest hte same manufacturer for the amplifier and preamp combination. Would you look at other units besides the MC452&C50 or ML532H&ML326S? If yes, I suggest you look at Ayre separates.

I use a Levinson 432 with my Cremona and very much like the combination. However, when paired with the 326, there is just too much of the laid back sound. It just gets dull. I have a Cary SLP-05 pre and it really perks up the sound. The Amati Future are a different beast than the old style Cremona, but Levinson should still be a good match. I would just be careful adding in the 326. A used 432 may be a good option also, although all of these are shooting a little low for the Amati Futura, in my opinion. The Futura is a $36K speaker. If you are looking at Levinson, how about the 532 rather than the 532H. I know, a lot more money, but something to think about.

The Classe SP80 is a very nice unit, although I have not had a chance to try it in my system. Highly recommend the SLP-05. I got it to replace a Classe CP65 pre and is was significantly better is pretty much every regard.

"The new MC452 has been slammed by the followers . . . " Really? Who/Where?