Thanks for the input. I will check out those other amplifiers. It's really interesting the responses you get back when asking questions like this. Some have said the JC5 would improve "bass presence and control". Another person told me he was concerned the JC5 could be "too bright", which is kind of the opposite of improving bass presence. That person recommended I consider Anthem or Bel Canto amplifiers.

A local dealer didn't have a strong opinion but suggested I somehow haul my amp and speakers into their shop to test different configurations (last thing I want to do is haul the T3s around town). He suggested I consider the Cary SA 200.2 amplifier.

I guess there are just many variables to consider as well as the fact that everyone has their own taste in what sounds good to them.

But it's still helpful to me to hear all these opinions, including yours, and I appreciate your taking the time to respond.

Well, I bit the bullet. I didn't get the amp and bring it home - I don't really have room (or strength) to be hooking in the JC5 and lugging it back if I don't like it.

So the local dealer set up a demo for me. He had an NAD amp (not my exact one but close enough) and the JC5 with the PSB T3's in his listening room. We first listened to the NAD alone and then he added in the JC5. I had several friends along and we all agreed it made a noticeable difference. Not sure how to describe it but the sound was fuller, more "muscular", and richer. The bass and low midrange were especially affected. I liked all that.

Then the dealer deviously broke my heart. He had a Mytek pre-amp (I am assuming the Manhattan II) that he hooked in to replace the NAD entirely. I have to say, this also made a difference but at the higher end. The Mytek added a bit more definition and clarity. One of my friends said it was like Diana Krall was singing in the room.

I exchanged emails with the guys at Upscale Audio in LA because I watch a lot of their videos on Youtube. They too had suggested I consider upgrading the preamp but didn't suggest a brand. I don't have the bucks to do that now and I think using the NAD M32 with the JC5 sounds just fine (I ended up buying the JC5 demo for a grand off the retail price and setting it up at home. It sounds great but the JC5 does get warm... I left lots of space around it.)

I was wondering if anyone had an opinion about the Manhattan II. I was also looking at PS Audio because I watch Paul McGowan's videos a lot also. But you have to buy a separate preamp and DAC from what I can tell.

Any thoughts on this madness?