Karipas,
Have you compared the SX-1250 to the Spec 4
I Qguy, I just got the Spec 4 today, I crossed south of the border kanina to pick it up. Dim bulb test muna to make sure it is working.
My initial assesment: Different presentations but I liked both, it will be a preference which flavor you want for the day.
The Spec 4 has the typical Pioneer house sound, a bit forward, no holds bard at the mid and top end, nice bottom presentation.
The Spec 4 is more akin to but has a more refined sound than my SA-9800ii/SA9500 which I regrettably sold a few years ago but very close; the SA-9500 probably can be your Spec 2 or 4 on a budget. I preferred the presentation of the SA 8800ii hence I kept it through the years using it now as a pre-amp for the Spec 4 while I hunt for a Spec 1.
Note that I've refurbed SA 8800II, all other mentioned where not, the result might change in the next few months perhaps. I said this because the SX1250 became a different animal when I had the leaking filter caps replaced (I used to adjust the turnover to my bass liking and loudness switch to on; but now I play it just flat and the SX1250 sings wonderfully). I will have the Spec 4 professionally restored in the coming weeks, and since I had the SX1250 filter caps replaced I will do the recapping myself.
Oh and to add, I think the Spec 4 has a much bigger sound stage, better separation/imaging than the SX 1250 BUT to my ears the SX 1250 sounds sweeter and warm to my ears, slightly (just slightly) laid back than the Spec 4.
I think the Spec 4 is picky on pre-amp. I did not liked the presentation of my tube Anthem Pre 1 + Spec 4.
I am not good in describing but I hope this helps.
CD Material, Mediteranian Sundance - Al DE Meola, Mc Laughlin, DE Lucia