Purchase post-mortem:
Initially turned away from HD-AMP1 based on the pan here on ASR. I bought, then returned an NAD C 368 which had better specs, more features. However the sound wasn't punchy, it would go loud but sound seemed compressed. Trying an analog input, found audible distortion on both channels, so returned it. Then went and listened to several Rotels (1592 and the lessor separates). 1592 sounded fantastic but price/size wasn't ideal. Looked at Yamaha but construction seemed cheap, didn't bother to listen (great features though).
After listening to some Prima Luna amps, then looking at THD specs for tube stuff...I realized that perhaps I'm just not as critical a listener as others on this forum. (Love tube sound) So I ended purchasing the HD-AMP1 after all. To me, after a week, it sounds great: taught, punchy bass, open airy highs ... exactly what the NAD lacked. Love the size and I've got 1 power cord for: Preamp, DAC, AMP...in office this was a big deal as shelf space is premium and I didn't want cords everywhere.
At this $1000 price point, I'm happy. At reasonable volume (<80 db avg SPL) plenty for my LS50s. Also FYI, the gain selector for headphone control makes a huge difference in output, easily powers my MassDrop HD6XX headphones.
I realize many on ASR are looking for the ultimate knee in the curve for performance and price, I guess I'm content to be in the next tier of "sounds good to me" folks who like nice stuff.
I'll be watching if a collective winner emerges here though, appreciate the debate. Thanks again Amir.
I'd love to see an all in one in <$2000 range with:
-Great DAC with multiple optical/coax inputs and USB
-Subwoofer digital out with configurable crossover points.
-NC400 Hypex AMP or equal
-Streamer that supports all services, has in house desktop/mobile apps (FYI NAD doesn't support Pandora which I learned after...almost a dealbreaker for me).
-Maybe room correction
-With specs you all like
The NAD M10 looks promising..but a little leery of the quality, don't feel like waiting. The Naim Unit wasn't around to demo, also pricey.
Now to decide on a streamer.