I am currently using a Rega Brio R and looking to upgrade. The Brio is definitely one of the finest in terms of value. I had initially shortlisted the Aethos and Supernait 3, I live in Singapore and the Aethos has yet to reach our shores. I auditioned the Supernait 3 and is impressed by it's performance. It definitely outperform my Brio in all categories( sound stage, bass, control, etc). In most of reviews that I had read about the Aethos the common complain is about the volume control; most of the reviewers preferred the Supernait 3.
In my search of a amplifier upgrade, one brand keeps popping up which is Luxman. The amplifier had certain aesthetic appeal which I really dig especially the VU meter and its build like a tank with loads of features. There is no chance for me to audition the Luxman as there is no distributor in my country. I managed to contact their supplier in hong kong whom provided me a quote. The Aethos retails for about USD 4K, Supernait 3 is USD 4.8K, Luxman 507uxII is USD 4.9K, Luxman 509X is USD 7.6K.
I am thinking of splurging on the Luxman 509X to be my final end game amplifier. What do you guys think. Opinions much appreciated.