You said that you wanted to upgrade the integrated amplifier and did not wish to go with preamp/amp.I would suggest you get one of the following: Rowland Concentra I or II,Gryphon Tabu Century,Gryphon 2100 or 2200,YBA Passion Integre.Do not stay in the middle,no source will help you achieve a good sound if you do.Then try different players and judge them accordingly.In the beginning this may sound like a waist of money but in the long term,I think,you will be pleased.CD-players come and go,good amplification stays.That's what I would do.
2 channel system?
in a 2 channel system (cd player or integrated amps) which component affects the sound the more? im looking to upgrade gradually and im wondering which component will have a more direct impact on the sound? i understand that matching of components is very important and all parts play an important role in the overall sound? but in your opinion which one affects it more? thanks in advance.