best ? ss integrated for Dynaudio Contour 1.3SE

Pardon my newbie questions here but what are Belles ? And what is the sound like on the VTL IT85 ? The DK MKII ? Also, What about the Classe CAP-151 ? ( I saw one listed here on Audiogon today )

The Creek is in the budget (used) though I wonder about the power. I'll want to audition one if this seems a likely candidate.

I do know watts aren't always just watts, but how does one determine the true power of an amp ? ...relative to driving speakers ?

I have been using my old Cambridge Audio A500 (65w/8ohms) with the D500se CD player (having replaced the little Tannoy R-1's w/the Dynaudio's) and it seems to lack the presence and authority I'm looking for.... even though music now does sound so-o-o much better. Though in my humble opinion the speakers are revealing more than just previously unheard sound. Hence, the desire for an upgrade in power.

Also, I will want a remote and I'll be getting headphones (with the baby on the way). That might narrow it down a bit.
Funny how this new family thing affects our choices.

Thanks, DavT. I'm going to research the nearest VTL dealer as well as Creek. I keep hearing about the 'hybrid tube integrated'amps.... the new thing, I guesss. Are the designers trying for the qualities of tube with the appeal of solid state? I auditioned the Jolida Hybrid the other day. Warm and smooth but it didn't quite grab me. Well, to my my ears anyway. I think part of it was the fact that I was listening at the dealer's, in a special listening room and through less than stellar speakers. This all contributes to the sound. The only true test must be in your own home with your own equipment, right?

I'll check out the Stereophile review of the Creek also. Thanks for the detailed response. This really helps.

More responses welcome. I'm new at this.

Thanks, all. I need to continue auditioning in order to ascertain my preferences from the growing field of choices.

I greatly appreciate the feedback.

Update :

I bought a (used) BelCanto eVo2i integrated along with an Arcam FMJ-cd23 and I am in audio bliss. Now I know what they mean when they talk about 'transparency' and 'uncolored' and all those seemingly abstract terms. What a wonderful experience listening to the actual music and not the strain / limitations of lesser components. Clear. Clean. WOW ! Perhaps a little tweaking with cables..... really, that's it. No, really. Was I just now crossing my fingers ? Well, not intentionally, anyway.

Thanks to all of you for your valuable advice and feedback.

I have obtained a goal I've had for more than 10 years ! Now I can listen to those classical cd's without wincing. What a difference ! Ah-h-h-h-h ...... the music !