I have a Heathkit 151a integrated redone by Sam Kim and can't believe how sweet sounding it is. He uses only the chassis and transformers and completely builds the amp from the ground up. MC and MM phono sections. Incredible linestage. If 8 watts work you can't do any better. Google Sams Audio.
Top vintage receivers vs. modern high-end equipment
I am considering pairing an old amplification system to my JBL Paragon -- the idea of getting an all vintage system is very attractive to me. Among other things, I am looking into classics such as the Pioneer 1980 receiver or the Marantz 2600. Does anyone have direct experience in comparing this kind of equipment (very high-end but 40 years ago) to current high-end equipment, imagine an integrated Pass Lab amplifier? How do they stack up? Thank you.