I thought the Vishnu had a clean, balanced sound to it. I also like the Michael Wolff PCs, but I don't see any on the used market right now. You might also try Audio Horizons. Their cords are under $200. They have a free home audition, I believe. IMO, the Audience (and the VH Audio Flavor 4) do not fit your sonic requests.
*I have no affiliation with the seller of the Vishnu PC.
*I have no affiliation with the seller of the Vishnu PC.