Top vintage receivers vs. modern high-end equipment

This is all very interesting. Perhaps a better choice than high-powered vintage receivers is some classic tube equipment, like the Marantz 7 preamplifier, and Marantz 8b amplifier combo. I once had a Model 7 and was impressed with it. The 8b has a simple circuit with what might be the best output tubes out there...that might be a good way to go: you stay in the vintage era like the Paragon, and get very good (although not very high-powered) amplification.

Well, I asked about receivers because I did not want to leave any stone unturned: I am not familiar with vintage receivers, and I thought that perhaps there might be a hidden gem in there. It looks like most people would go separates or perhaps integrated amp. I am leaning toward the Marantz or McIntosh separates. It's interesting that some folks rave about Marantz Model 7, which others think it's really nothing special. I am still tempted to go modern (thinking about Pass Labs Int-60 or a class A Accuphase integrated amp, like E-550 or in the tube camp one of deParavicini high-powered ones, like the 899 or similar)...but the idea of having a full vintage system is probably more right.