Thanks for all of the interesting and helpful responses. I will look for a Marantz with confidence. Concerning the preamp, I will probably eventually either ask Van Alstine to upgrade me to the newest top of the line tube preamp or should a De Havilland Ultravereve, Audible Illusions, SAS ... come up consider that as well. Thanks for the Ayre suggestion, I will also research this one. Does anyone know how the Ayre units compare to Klyne SS, Bryston BP26 or Pass units? Its a shame that so many purchases have to be made without proper auditions but I have not been unhappy with this type guidance so far.
I am delighted with the phono stage (current model) in the AVA T8+ and in general prefer on board phono stages due to limited cabinet space and wife acceptance...Thanks again to everyone.
I am delighted with the phono stage (current model) in the AVA T8+ and in general prefer on board phono stages due to limited cabinet space and wife acceptance...Thanks again to everyone.