Really depends on what sound characteristics/improvements you’re looking for, and several of the amps you listed sound very different from one another. Also, the DAC is very important and I’d advocate for buying a standalone DAC if you really want the best performance. I’d also budget for an external LPS for the Node as it apparently makes for a big increase in performance.
Integrated amplifier for Martin Logan Ethos
I am in the market for an integrated amplifier. I only have 2 digital sources, a Node 2i for Tidal and my optical return from my TV. I want to maximize my dollar and not spend for things I don't use (like Phono or lots of additional inputs, room correction, etc.
I would like to spend 5K or less and pre-owned is fine. I am looking at the integrated amps below. I realize it may be wiser to use a stand alone dac however one of the reasons i want to upgrade is synergy. I have a tube preamp (Juicy Music Peach ii) an older B&K 200.2 and a Channel Islands VDA-2 Dac. Everything sounds good but i think it lacks resolution and dynamics and it is not the most user friendly set up. I would like to upgrade my dac and the preamp / amp so an all in one is appealing.
Michi X3 (version 1 or 2) Is the Dac appreciably better in V2?
Hegel H390 (all great reviews, i don't love the aesthetics) Reliability long term?
McIntosh MA6700 (Would have to be used, hard to find, am i overpaying for features I don't need)
Luxman 505uxii or 507uxii and use my current DAC (is this the right fit for Martin Logan Ethos?) Will i regret not upgrading my DAC as i am 100% digital
Peachtree Carina Gan. (Most affordable and meets all my needs, would this be a step backwards?) How good is the Dac?
Cary Si300.2d (May seem like an odd choice but it checks all the boxes, made locally and can often be found factory direct or slightly used for 3-4K)
Yamaha R-N2000SA, I like the looks and the functionality and price, is this a step below Michi or Hegel?
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