Wanting separates but help needed .......

"I have read a lot and tend to think that a Pass x250.5 and the new model 10 pre could be a good decision."

- You're absolutely right, it could.

"Would McIntosh or others be a better choice?"

- Absolutely could be.

I recognize that those answers aren't helpful, but the total exclusion of listening preferences from your post makes it almost impossible for anyone to help. Unless you can offer a personal listening profile, the best recommendations that anyone can make, is for components that they enjoy personally.

I'm surprised to hear that the BAT is warm sounding with the Focals. Even though the term warm is subjective, I would be inclined to look elsewhere for that particular issue.

I tend to agree with you that more power (especially in the form of current) will be welcome. I'll leave it for others to recommend solid state alternatives, but I would think that the Bat tube monoblocks, coupled with one of their companion preamps would work well with your speakers. I cant say how they will mesh with the Rhea. Also, keep in mind that you have some high quality components there, the performance of which can be heavily influenced by your choices in ancillary equipment such as isolation devices, racks, power cords, cables, interconnects, etc.

One last thing, don't conclude that separates are an automatic upgrade. There are some very competitive integrateds out there.

Well, I take it that "bright or shiney" applies to both of your sources so you're probably right to look at your speaker/amp synergy. I've heard a couple of different JM Lab speakers with BAT products and generally liked the sound.

The beauty of Audiogon is that you can listen to advise, find something that interests you in the classifieds and if it doesn't quite work out for you, resell it. If you choose wisely, you might be out the cost of shipping.