You might consider a receiver instead of an integrated amp. You can purchase a used luxman R-117 receiver for approx. $280 on Ebay (from a high ranked seller) when they become available. They have 160 watts/channel and have a cd bypass switch and can take a MC cartridge. The nakamichi stasis SR-3 is a sweeter sounding receiver but only 80 watts/channel and can be purchased for $150-200. I would then spend the rest on speakers. If you have the room you could get used magnepan 1.6 QRs for $750-950.
Best preamp/ Amp combo or intgrated amp??
I'm moving and need a new amp/ pre amp or intgrated amp. I don't have fine tuned ears, and will primarly be listening to classic country, classic rock or blues on this system. I have about $500 to spend on the amp and was wondering what kind amp would be best to power the old infinity electro static speakers I have (I have no idea of the model or make). Unless you think that these are junk then I also have about another $500 to spend on speakers. Also how do you know whch amps and pre amps go good together? What do you reccomend?