The "Brits" as you call them, are generally noted for their polite, laid back sound. If what you want is "lively, open, and energized", I suggest you consider something else (Adcom separates, Denon, Sony, or Onkyo receivers, Hafler separates, et. al.) See what some others might say. Good luck in your quest and happy listening.
Tired of boring, polite, laid-back sound.....
Looking for a very lively, open, pulsating intergrated for less than 1k used...considering Arcam, MF, and Creek...basically leaning towards the Brits...am I in the right direction? Could sacrfice some refinement for energized, focused soundstaging....thanks...