Integrateds: $3K, $4.5K or $5K

for 3500, I have found the Ayre AX7e to be the best integrated I've heard as it's a great mix for tube guys (me) and SS guys. Tight, articulate bass and a huge sound stage and imaging. Also, the mids are sweet and believable. Don't go by the power rating either as they drive the Vandy Treo's (84db) in a midsize room.

I guess you have to cut it off somewhere but there are so many integrated amps out that worth considering. As mentioned the Ayre is a great one. I would also add the Krell s300-i, the Creek Destiny and the Simaudio i5.3. These are all top notch and I would think they could easily compete with any that you are considering. The Creek especially is a great buy at around 1000 used it is so much great sound for that price. It's not the most powerful but you are in a small room so power is probably hardly going to be an issue at all for you unless you really crank it way up.

hi,
i would recommend looking into Accuphase integrated amps - probably the best integrated amp - class A or AB

Be sure to include in your considerations some of the Cayin units. Great sound, great value. I have a few and have been well pleased.

Not sure if you are open to other suggestions, but as a Joseph dealer, I can give you 2 other great options for the Pulsars (incredible speakers by the way):

Rogue Audio Pharaoh

Krell s500i