Newsed int amp - Creek, Music Hall, Linn?


Hi. My current system is:
http://tinyurl.com/kjfstereo

I'm considering replacing my Cambridge Audio Azur 340A due to a combination of sonic and aesthetic reasons, as follows:

* On some music, the Cambridge Audio Azur 340A sounds a tad bright and is tiring. I like it a lot with jazz and some pop, but on alternative (REM, Cure, ...) it sounds bright.

* The old school Pioneer tuner and Onix CD player look cool. The 340A is a bit too subdued next to them.

I am following some used equipment like Creek 5050, Creek 4330, Music Hall A25.2, and Linn Majik-1. Only the Music Hall is appealing aesthetically, but I have no idea of the sound.

Any advice on which of these or any other to get. I'd like to stay under $500 but can be persuaded otherwise.

Thanks in advance,
Keith
vivaslb
Another vote for Naim integrateds. The 5 series has been well-regarded for many years. Should be able to find them, along with all kinds of other Naim gear, used.

I am currently using an XS integrated (I picked up a dealer's ex-demo) that I am absolutely thrilled with. My system has never before sounded so musical.

I appreciate that some may find the "black box" look to be unappealing. For the first time in my audio journey, I am no longer listening to my gear- things just sound right.

Good luck with your decision.
Headshrinker2 - yup, the Brit integrated amps are just a little lacking in personality in terms of appearance from what I've encountered so far. But they do have their fans.
Ok, so I've put aside all of the above for now. Actually bought a Sansui AU-101 for peanuts off that large auction site we know and sometimes love. More for its bold appearance than anything else, but who knows, it may surprise me. Have a line on a Cambridge Audio 640A but the appearance blahs still apply. Anybody want to buy a Cambridge Audio 340A cheap? That way, I'll be forced to get something new and just decide.