Need $1500 integrated amplification suggestions...


Some units on the radar:

Cary SLI-80 or F1
ARC CA-50
Classe 2100
Primaluna
Red Wine Audio 30.2
CODA integrated
Musical Fidelity A5

Any others worth considering? I am going a different direction in my system (downgrading amplification) and upgrading my speakers. I currently have a Tyler Linbrook Sig System, and will be going to the new Decade line, which are easier to drive, and more tube-friendly. I am looking for musical, easy to listen to, detailed, and full. Not overly bloomy, nor dry. And, I don't need a ton of power: 50wpc is plenty for these 8-ohm speakers.

Budget (new or used) is $1500. Tubes or Solid-state is OK: I just want a nice sound. Most $1500 (used) integateds sound pretty darn good.
chiho
You might also want to check out Pathos and/or Bel Canto. Two very different approaches - two very successful implementations. I own both, have used each with a slew of different speakers, and have been very happy all around.

Marty
You can't go wrong with the SLI-80 and even you don't like it you can resell it easily. I think you can do better than the MF and the Classe products IME.
For something completely different...how about a Quad 909 and 99 preamp? Musical and reliable...will also allow easier future upgrade. Can pick up the pair for under $1500 easy.
I have an Avatar SE and have no regrets. It was a clear step up from the Vsi-55 for me. Sometimes I think it has less bass, other times I think the bass quality is just better. It certainly has better clarity, soundstage, and is much more transparent in my system. My speakers are Verity Tamino 89db 8ohm min 6.8, not too hard to drive.
In the end it is more $$ than the others you are looking at but I bounced around a bit too much before settling on the VAC. Call it learning or foolishness. I haven't heard your speakers but can vouch for this amp.
A bunch of good ideas here. A used Plinius 9100 if available is another good choice. Also, anything used in that price range from Blue Circle...