From the options you've listed, it looks like you are spreading $600 across amplification AND preamplification.
In that case, going with seperates would make for a fairly tight budget, but do-able. I simply don't see many integrateds with much power out there - you probably noticed the same seeing as you located the DIA-150, which has about the most power I've seen in an integrated since it uses a passive pre and leaves lots more room for the amplifier section.
If you don't like bright, I would not honestly recommend the Acurus amplifiers. The RL11 preamp is nice though. I've owned the A250 and A100x3 and both were horribly bright and forward. The RL11 I still own and have no such complaints.
Some other options you might consider for inexpensive, higher-power SS amps:
Forte 200w 6a (200w)
B&K ST202 (150w)
Hafler D500 (225w)
Adcom (many models)
Bryston 3b or 4b
Sometimes an older Belles or Perraux amp pops up
Good luck,
Mike
In that case, going with seperates would make for a fairly tight budget, but do-able. I simply don't see many integrateds with much power out there - you probably noticed the same seeing as you located the DIA-150, which has about the most power I've seen in an integrated since it uses a passive pre and leaves lots more room for the amplifier section.
If you don't like bright, I would not honestly recommend the Acurus amplifiers. The RL11 preamp is nice though. I've owned the A250 and A100x3 and both were horribly bright and forward. The RL11 I still own and have no such complaints.
Some other options you might consider for inexpensive, higher-power SS amps:
Forte 200w 6a (200w)
B&K ST202 (150w)
Hafler D500 (225w)
Adcom (many models)
Bryston 3b or 4b
Sometimes an older Belles or Perraux amp pops up
Good luck,
Mike