I think Audphile1's post is right on the money as far as this being an amp/speaker issue rather than just an amp issue. Dyanmic contrast is at least as much a function of the speaker as of the amplifier.
You see, we're used to thinking that our speakers give us 3 dB more output for a doubling of input power. In reality, most home audio speakers give us something closer to 2.5 dB for a doubling of input power. So when a 20 dB peak comes along (happens all the time), we only get about 16 or 17 dB. That missing 3-4 dB is called "power compression", and the result is a loss of liveliness.
Your JM Lab/Focal speakers are probably better than average when it comes to power compression, but they'll still compress significantly on peaks if you push them close to their 200 watt rated maximum input.
You mentioned a budget of $10-$15k. Assuming dynamic contrast is a high priority, I think you can do better for less money if you're willing to change speakers - instead of spending the full amount on amplification.
Duke
You see, we're used to thinking that our speakers give us 3 dB more output for a doubling of input power. In reality, most home audio speakers give us something closer to 2.5 dB for a doubling of input power. So when a 20 dB peak comes along (happens all the time), we only get about 16 or 17 dB. That missing 3-4 dB is called "power compression", and the result is a loss of liveliness.
Your JM Lab/Focal speakers are probably better than average when it comes to power compression, but they'll still compress significantly on peaks if you push them close to their 200 watt rated maximum input.
You mentioned a budget of $10-$15k. Assuming dynamic contrast is a high priority, I think you can do better for less money if you're willing to change speakers - instead of spending the full amount on amplification.
Duke