[hansjurg]

Originally Posted by jesuisunutopiste

Yes, I did.
My only comparative listening experience so far on the Utopia Scala, the source being an Esoteric k-01x (I own both machines now), was with the following integrated amps:

in alphabetical order

Accuphase E-600
Accuphase E-470
Esoteric F-05
Luxman L-590
Yamaha A-S3000

Thus, a mixture of class A and AB

The result:

in terms of sound style (MY taste: transparent and clear)

Yamaha A-S3000
Accuphase E-470
Accuphase E-600
Luxman L-590
Esoteric F-05

in terms of quality of the sound (precision, soundstage, etc. etc.)

Accuphase E-600
Esoteric F-05
Accuphase E-470
Luxman L-590
Yamaha A-S3000

I really like the Yamaha sound, but they are not reaching the high(est) end.
With Accuphase, I can clearly make it to higher levels.
I did not like Luxman (that is taste...), and was a bit disappointed by Esoteric.
Wonderfully built machines, but the sound is to nice, not enough thrill.
But a second audition could possibly change my mind.
Esoteric is probably something for the long time.

Your thoughts on E480 vs E650?