I have a SIT-3, which is paired with a Supratek pre and Klipsch Forte III speakers. The Supratek has high gain, which I dial back about 40% via the gain pot and still have plenty of drive and wonderful sound.
I mostly listen at reasonable volumes (70 db to 80 db range) and find the music doesn't have to be loud to sound good.
I also have a Rogers EHF 200 Mk. 2 integrated, it has 5 x the power, more body--and also sounds awesome--but can't match the finesse and intimacy of the SIT-3/Supratek combo.
Which is "better" would be a matter of a coin toss.
I mostly listen at reasonable volumes (70 db to 80 db range) and find the music doesn't have to be loud to sound good.
I also have a Rogers EHF 200 Mk. 2 integrated, it has 5 x the power, more body--and also sounds awesome--but can't match the finesse and intimacy of the SIT-3/Supratek combo.
Which is "better" would be a matter of a coin toss.