There is a Parasound A23 integrated amp, 160 wpc 8 ohm and 240 wpc 4 ohm 45 amp peak power that I would consider buying. Would that be an upgrade or just a lateral move?Couple of things.
Those are not the specs of an A-23. Its best to use the RMS ratings when making comparisons. The A-23 is actually spec’d at 125 wpc into 8; 225 into 4. Your Atoll is 100 wpc into 8; 140 wpc into 4. This is really negligible as your must double the wattage to attain just a 3 DB increase in volume. So while the A-23 would be no louder, it could sound a bit different due to its current. If that is truly greater too because we don’t know the current rating on the Atoll. With its twin toroidal transformers, it could be the same.
The A-23 is a very good amp for the money but so is your Atoll 100se. The dealer was wise in recommending it to you and you state that you love the way your system sounds. What more could you ask for?
This would be a lateral move at best and you would gain nothing.