Gold Note IS - 1000 integrated amp

     Thank you for your detailed response.  A dealer in the area is changing over his audio equipment and has much of his current equipment on sale.  This includes the Hegel H80 and the Hegel H160 ($2450), along with a Primera integrated.  He displayed the Gold Note system at Axpona and spoke highly of the Gold Note IS 1000.  I wasn't sure if it was worth the stretch. After your review it just may be.
      My house system includes Sonos equipment; Connect Amp, Playbar, Subwoofer, and Play 5 (Generation 1).  The system that I enjoy listentng to music on, located in another part of the house, is the Connect Amp, PBS Image T5 Speakers, Sunfire subwoofer, and Rega RP1 turntable w/Ortofon Blue cartiridge (recently purchased on Audiogon).  I will be replacing the Connect amp and the speakers.  I also have an older CD player, called a Kyocera.  
     As you can tell this is not some high end system, but I have an opportunity to greatly improve the sound of MY listening area and would like to get the best bang for the buck. I would like to spend about $2000 on the speakers. The sound needs to be clear, with crisp highs and a strong base that is not boomy.  Hopefully a warm clear sound.  Hope this makes sense.
     I'm very interested in suggestions and opinions.  I understand this will be a process and although I have enjoyed the sound of all types of music for a long time, I now have an opportunity to make a step forward. 
Thank you  

Thanks for the update. I am still researching and auditioning integrated amps.  I was able to audition a Peachtree Nova 150, my simple speakers sounded different in a good way.  

What is your opinion on upgrading a system? What percentages would you give to upgrading speakers and amps?  I was told that speakers should be about 90% of an uprade.  

Thank you for your response and recommendations, I will look into them.  You must have an awesome system.  Enjoy.