I would go with McIntosh SS or tube. There are many used models available on ebay since the company has been around for a long time, and for a range of prices. They made a slim-line setup that is compact. I own two of these SS pieces currently for my living room: C712 pre and MC7100 amp (>100Wpc) - quite a killer combination for the price (about $1300 for both only 5 years old). They push Paradigm Reference 100s which are great for a living room because they don't require huge amounts of space around them to sound good. I have them close to the back wall and they sound as good as when I had them closer to the middle of the room. I love my setup and listen to it all the time - super warm, sweet, detailed, musical, and envelopping.
Good Audio System for Living Room
I don't have nor can have a dedicated listening room or perfect listening position in my living room. I'd like to upgrade my very old audio system with something that will fill the living (and dining) room with sweet, warm music. Looking for amp, CD player and eventually speakers. High power not a requirement. Budget around a few thousand. A friend has recommended Rega which sounds familiar from my turntable days. Thank you for pointing me in the right direction.