There really hasn’t been any major advancements in technology in the past 50 years that would make me think that whatever integrated you choose will become obsolete. You could hook up a vintage tube integrated to a streaming dac and be right up to date with modern systems. It’s really only the digital front end parts that are changing. A well built integrated can also last indefinitely with minimal service. It’s well worth either stretching your budget, or do what many of us here do and buy/sell/trade equipment as we go. It’s part of the fun. For that reason I’d recommend looking in the used market. Read reviews and check out brands like Arcam, Creek, Cyrus, Linn, Nad, Naim, Musical Fidelity, Quad, Rega, Roksan etc, all should be easy to find 2nd hand locally. Skip the Denon. It’s a good starter brand (the second amp I bought was a Denon) but many of those others I mentioned previously will get you closer to that high end sound.
Better Integrated Amp?
Hi, I'm looking at my first set up and have been advised by people on this website to get an integrated amp (including phono stage). I'm looking at the Quad Vena 2 which I would have to get second hand due to cost, and the Denon PMA-800NE which I could buy new whilst still being the cheaper option. I'm open to other suggestions to just wanted to get your thoughts on which amp I should go for or if I should look at some others too.