Portal Audio Panache or Marantz PM8004

Those are some mighty fine testimonials. It looks like I will be patient and see what the used market produces. Thanks all!

I owned the Portal Panache a few years ago and really enjoyed it. Bought it here when I was the only bidder so I can say it was an accidental purchase. At the time I was using a Classe CAP151 and after a couple weeks with the Panache the Classe was sold. The Panache was much better IMO. Very warm and inviting sound.
Ultimately though, I am too lazy to live without remote so I sold it. There are other amps out there with a similar, warm sound you may consider. The Unison Research Unico comes to mind.

I also owned a Portal Panache for a while a few years ago and liked it very much. It does not have the detail and refinement of the best gear, but it has coherence, drive, and a pure, direct sound that I liked very much. Stunningly good headphone amp, as someone noted above.

As you probably know, Nelson Pass was supposedly involved in the design.

I haven't heard the Panache but as a proud new papa of a Marantz PM-15S2b, I think the PM-8004 might be a good investment. Aside from the features and it's tendency towards neutral sound, it is made in Japan right alongside the Reference Series.

I also read on an English site that the Pearl Lite integrated is what the PM-8004 is called in Europe and that they are basically, the same creature.

Good luck and all the best,
Nonoise