I'd forgotten about these amps! I have analog and digital sources, so I never gave these any real consieration.
I wouldn't worry about how they currently sound with your Ruark Epilogues, $300/pair speakers, but you'll need to decide if you can live with the input limitation. Peachtree does make more "traditional" GAN amps with analog inputs.
I do think you've got it right - you're ready to get serious about your system and that means you need to get out and hear some gear. For most of us, finding the right speakers is the crucial first step. That'll determine what you need from your amplification. Let us know when you have decided what pieces you upgrade in your system and have a budget. Sounds like you're in the UK, so most of us aren't going to be much help with dealers, quality of in-country support, etc. Good luck!