Thanks for your responses. I decided to keep the Totem Model 1's and deal with the amp and preamp issue. I just purchased a used Unison Research Unico hybrid integrated. 80w. I am much happier but will I ever be truly happy? The fun is in the chase I fear. With the Unico... more bass both in terms of weight and extension. Bigger soundstage, more air around instruments and voices. More palpable. Interestingly, I found that there appeared to be a little less high freq extension compared to the NEW/SP-9 combo, the type of thing I would adjust if I had a "treble control". I switched from zip cord to Kimber 4PR. I have a 25' run and could not really afford right now to get better cable at that length. The change to 4PR had a fairly dramatic effect overall and gave me a little more high frequency extension and "sparkle". But I would still like a bit more. I have a 1st gen Rega planet and thought I could get a better interconnect or maybe change the 12au7 tubes. What tube would be brighter? It came with Phillps tubes. I may also get the Model 1's upgraded to signatures as a possible next step. There are also a couple of professional modification packages for the Unico that have recieved favourable reviews on 6moons...when will it end!
