I have had the Portal Panache here for about three months. Before this I had a Musical Fidelity A3.2 which was a very enjoyable and attractive Integrated ( I really liked the blue lights too). The diferences in sound between the two is very subtle. The Panache seems a bit more clear and precise to my ears. I'd say the Panache is more neutural, not cold or hard though.
I reciently bought a Unison Unico integrated thinking I would get more "air" and sweetness to the sound. After a few hours of comparing the two I found the Panache to be better in every area, attack, decay, soundstage depth and imaging, bass control, detail etc. The Panache just sounds more alive and vibrant and clear. I am assured that the Panache is a good product. I now believe I am going to have to spend a whole lot of more money to get better sound out of an Integrated.
I reciently bought a Unison Unico integrated thinking I would get more "air" and sweetness to the sound. After a few hours of comparing the two I found the Panache to be better in every area, attack, decay, soundstage depth and imaging, bass control, detail etc. The Panache just sounds more alive and vibrant and clear. I am assured that the Panache is a good product. I now believe I am going to have to spend a whole lot of more money to get better sound out of an Integrated.