I wouldn’t put any of your first choices in the high quality category.

I think this all depends on where you are in your journey. I remember in the 90s thinking Denon, Marantz and Mission were top tier.

Truth is, you need to plot your course and upgrade as money will allow. At each step you will hear significant improvements and so if those brands are high quality to you right now, that’s all that matters.

For me, McIntosh and Nagra are aspirational brands. No doubt a few on this forum would disagree and point out that there is better stuff available.

Steve’s main goal is to sell you stuff with hyperbole. Like most YouTube reviewers unfortunately. I like Steve, and some of the others , but just know what I’m getting.

I had to add this… Depeche mode, other than the new stuff, is definitely a let down. They overly processed Dave’s vocals and went for a totally electronic sound. It is for sure a result of what they did and not your system. Your system is just revealing it for what it is.

If it helps at all I had the same reaction when I started upgrading. Currently on a Michi X3 and Spendor A7s and can say the sound is still different from more dynamic recordings - however, I have now got used to it and it sounds completely acceptable. It’s just going to take time for the presentation of the sound to normalise.

Auditioned speakers costing 5x the price but I sincerely love my Spendor a7. Nothing ive heard is as perfect for my ears at communicating emotion.

I have the Rotel Michi X3. Upgraded from a Rega Elicit-R. Massive upgrade and thoroughly impressed with the Michi.