I owned that Accuphase many moons ago and I didn’t think it was a ball of fire. It is 150 watts and over 40 years old. At your budget you should take a look at this Odyssey Audio amp . It is 150 watts and new. BTW, you can return it if you don't like it!
http://www.odysseyaudio.com/products-stratos-stereo.html
http://www.odysseyaudio.com/products-stratos-stereo.html