mlipman wrote:

Hi - I have Focal 1028be speakers, Sutherland 20/20 phono pre-amp, and a vpi prime scout phono - now deciding the amp

I am trying to choose between a peach tree nova 300 or a PS Audio Stellar M700 and DAC. Obviously, the second option is a large premium - any views on will that difference really come out in the sound?

There are many many choices.

Why are you limiting yourself to those two?

I would recommend the Musical Fidelity M6 or M5, which IMO would sound better than either of the ones you mention.

You can check out their prices and specs at Audio Advisor or other dealers.

I find the tweeter on those Focals to be a bit bright. To balance that sound profile, I would look at a Rega Elex R or Elicit R. They have a warmer sound profile that will offer a nice contrast to that beryllium tweeter. The best i have ever heard those speakers sound was driven by a McIntosh MC275. Not saying you should look at a tube as those are pricier but Rega could be a nice SS solution.