I have been trying to build up a new system in my second home for a year or so without breaking the bank.
I have a very good quality CD and turntable, and a very nice set of PSB Image T6 speakers, but the bass seemed weak and the dynamics just weren't there; it didn't seem to make sense.
My first home has a $30k system with an Audio Research LS-26 preamp and 3B-SST Bryston amp with Vandersteen speakers and subs, so my standards are kind of high re sound quality.
I decided that the NAD C356BEE amp I was using had to be the culprit, but I wasn't absolutely sure.
Anyway, I ordered a Musical Fidelity M3i from Audio Advisor becuse of the 30-day free trail they give, and 10 minutes after I hooked it up, I knew it wasn't going back.
I was totally unprepared for how wonderful this amplifier sounds. It is drop-dead gorgeous. I have never heard anything better for under $4k, and it is close enough to my big system at the other house that I can listen and not feel too disadvantaged...lol.
This is a remarkable amplifier for $1500; no two ways about it.