oldhvymec,
I recently switched over to the Mcintosh camp and I'm very happy with the results. I also have a Zpre3 for an office system that simply defies it's price and size, great little preamp. If I was the OP I'd grab one of those and save up for a newer used Mcintosh integrated. Another kilobuck would put you real close.
Reliability and serviceability are important to me as well. But so is the lifestyle factor. I'm working from home now and my stereo is on at least 16 hours a day, doing double duty with the entertainment center as well. This Mcintosh runs so efficient and cool it's hard to tell it's even running by putting your hand on top. So as much as I liked them in the past, no more tubes or Class A for me.
Good luck with your choices Sengr.
I recently switched over to the Mcintosh camp and I'm very happy with the results. I also have a Zpre3 for an office system that simply defies it's price and size, great little preamp. If I was the OP I'd grab one of those and save up for a newer used Mcintosh integrated. Another kilobuck would put you real close.
Reliability and serviceability are important to me as well. But so is the lifestyle factor. I'm working from home now and my stereo is on at least 16 hours a day, doing double duty with the entertainment center as well. This Mcintosh runs so efficient and cool it's hard to tell it's even running by putting your hand on top. So as much as I liked them in the past, no more tubes or Class A for me.
Good luck with your choices Sengr.