Impressions: $1k-$2k integrated amps


Hi there!

Id like to start a thread to collect impressions from about about integrated amps in the $1k - $2k range (new or used). 
How would you describe the character of the sound? How did it “pair” with other items in your rig? Most important, how did it compare with other amps in this category/on this list. 

This is not exhaustive but here’s a starting point:

Belles Aria

Yamaha a-s1100

Yanaha a-s2100 (used)

AVA SET 120 Control 

Anthem i225

Primare i21

Primare i22

Moon by Sim Audio 240i (used)

Rega Elex-R

Marantz PM8006


leemaze
With the exception of the KEF, and the Diamond 220's, I’ve listened to all of the above with Primare.
The speaker I thought went best with the Primares is not on your list.
Both the original Studio 100’s and the Response D2 by Proac brought forth more of the Primare capabilities in my mind.
There is also the rumor that Stewart Tyler of Proac may have voiced a line of Proacs with Primare stuff.
Original Studio 100’s can be had in the $1200 range. The new Studio 100’s are not the same speaker.
I had the primare.  It sounded really good at first, very clean and punchy, but I never felt like listening for very long. Not fatigue, just boredom. Wasn't very engaging.

The Yamahas are really great all-arounders, but left me wanting more detail.

I have the moon 240i now. Its absolutely incredible! Clean, good low end, non-fatiguing. At 50 watts, I am left wanting more power, so will either add a moon power amp or move to one of their more powerful integrated. Highly recommended. 
@artisonjosh: Don't know which you had but with the  I 20 series (I21-22) etc. I would have to agree.
The 30 series were better in this regard.

Be careful on the power move up within the same company. Sometimes the beguiling character of a lower watt amp gets lost with the higher powered one. 
this curiosity just popped up on eBay, what fun if it sounded good. fun to know about at least

This Vintage Denon Integrated has one phono input and front switched internals for MM 2.5mv sensitivity and MC .125 mv sensitivity.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Denon-PMA-750-Audio-80-Watt-Phono-Turntable-Stereo-Pre-Amplifier/174360505596?hash=item2898b22cfc:g:fGQAAOSwOI5e8Yd4

Very clean, you would need to get seller to ship if for far less money

Denon excerpt: Phono 20-100k, 0.2db

The MC/MM super equalizer is carried and the broadband characteristic of 20Hz-100kHz�}0.2dB is realized.
Composition consists of the NF form direct-current amplifier and CR form equalizing filter by newly developed low noise dual FET, and the first rank serves as dual FET differential amplification of the direct direct-current servo system.

https://audio-database.com/DENON-COLUMBIA/amp/pma-750-e.html

https://www.hifiengine.com/manual_library/denon/pma-750.shtml