Integrated suggestions

@rhljazz 

I sold a Luxman LX-380 tube based integrated and purchased a Gato Amp 150 AE and it amazed me at how good it sounded. I am driving a pair of Aerial Acoustic 7T’s and the pairing has been absolutely fantastic! The Luxman was OK but the Gato was next level and honestly has provided me with the best music I have ever heard in my room.

I read a comment earlier in this thread that reported fan noise. I have never heard such noise. The thing is dead quiet from my listening position.

My research also found nothing but positive feedback so I took a leap of faith and have not regretted it since. It’s a keeper. I’m a very happy camper.

Cheers and good luck in your search.

@rhljazz 

I sold my Luxman LX-380 to purchase the Gato Amp 150 AE and have zero regrets. It’s an amazing integrated with all the juice I need to run my Aerial Acoustics 7T. 

 The sound is so clean and pure. Even my wife commented when she first heard it. I have been so impressed by it. A keeper for sure. If I ever upgrade from here, it would likely be Gato’s own separates. I do not feel any need to do so at the moment though. I am beyond happy with it.

As for the previous comment by another user about fan noise, if it’s there, I’ve never heard it from my listening position. 
 

I use the HT bypass feature out from my Anthem MRX-1120 into the Gato and even my home theater sounds better with the Gato powering the front pair.

I hope this is helpful with regards to your interest in this particular unit. Too many times, as hobbyists, we are unable to find reviews, opinions or adequate feedback regarding a particular piece. Good luck in your search.

Cheers!

@infection 

Why not AR i50? Seems right up your alley and in your wheelhouse price wise... Maybe Canor Virtus i2 40/20wpc class A. I would go with the Canor which just debuted at Munich, but 7k.

Good luck and happy Hunting

my Gato 150 is seemingly totally quiet. if interested in Gato, the top of the line 150 is Class AB and no DAC...the less expensive but more powerful 250 and 400 are Class D and include DAC...

Also recommend Michi 3x (paired w/ Rose 150 + Focal 1038Be) - resolving w/out fatigue.  

i think the anthem int would be perfect for you. canada made .canada money #1 in best buck for your music

+1 on the Belles Aria Signature. I own and would recommend the Aesthetix Mimas which is my favorite integrated but new it's above your budget. The DAC and Phono cards are optional. The Mimas is a hybrid amp. You may be able to find a used one within your budget. Good Luck!

Thank you all for your continued suggestions. Obviously used offers more value & I briefly contemplated a used Levinson 585 but my back isn't the best & I don't think I want to return to a very heavy lump.

The issue is I can't see the Octave selling anytime soon...

Please check out Primaluna. I am still thrilled with the sound after 2 years. Auto biasing, point to point hand wired, high quality components and steel case mounted tube sockets. Tough to beat in your price range.

Go for $6000 and get yourself an Accuphase 280