Listened to Dean Peers Ucross cd earlier today. Wow! My new system really delivered the goods! 
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My 5 box approach could also be all 5 preamps that I have, lol
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Is the DAC module for the 333 substantially improved from the ones in the Gryphon Zena/Essence preamps? If not, then I would suggest considering other DACs before going that route. Though I didn’t have a good streamer at the time, I didn’t find the DAC in the Essence preamp to be a “keeper” - it was nice, but I didn’t find it to be in a different league from a DS Mk.I or even an RME ADI-2 at 1/5th the price. It was quiet with nice midrange density and dynamics, but it had some of that Sabre sibilance that drives me nuts, and wasn’t particularly nuanced. It’s good enough to not be a glaring weak link, but is really intended for convenience first and foremost and won’t push what the amp is capable of.
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The DAC in the Grimm MU2 should do nicely.
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Ethos DAC vs MU2 DAC… which do you think is the best for you?
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I am currently not using either. Both are exceptional. I am favoring the BACCH-SP adio DAC lately,
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Due to the BACCH stuff or are you auditioning something new? No, please don’t tell…
Edit: phew!
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I currently have no interest in any other DAC.
Yes @scotte1 , I know what you are going to reply. I get it.
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After all, we listen to music with our eyes too, don’t we? We poor audio fetishists!
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Might be interesting to hear the backstory
Does anyone have experience with Japanese amps such as Accuphase and Luxman? I got the impression that their sonic signature is designed towards Japanese households more than here in US. The typical homes there are very different from our US single family homes too. It could be the reason they do not get universal appreciation here.
I can forget about buying amps from Japan because I will need a step-down transformer, plus the potential custom trouble at the airport. The ones I am looking at are two giant boxes, and we are traveling to three cities, plus coming back to Honolulu for a couple of days before heading back to SF. It makes zero sense to think about buying aboard.
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Both, feel free to PM to discuss.
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I’ve always heard very good things about both. I haven’t heard any recently. I did hear the Luxman room at Axpona and thought it sounded good. The owner of Quintessence Audio in Morton Grove said his favorite integrated is the Class A Accuphase. I’d like to hear the Accuphase myself.
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I have owned quite a few Accuphase amps, starting with a P-300x in the late 80’s to my current E-800. I guess this means I think they are wonderful products, from a company with a well deserved reputation of impeccable build quality and reliability
I personally love the aesthetic (while I like the digital meters on the 800, nothing beats the classic Accuphase analog vu meters, which I miss everyday) some will not agree, which I wholeheartedly respect
So many options available to you, take your time, listen to some amps, enjoy the process, you’ll find the right one(s) that fit your listening tastes and your wife’s sense of style
Accuphase’ house sound is often described as warm or laid back, while it is not an “aggressive” sound, I find it to be very neutral, almost subtle warmth, that stills hits on the dynamics. That said, if you are a metal head, or are fond of driving, impactful tracks, Accuphase may not be for you
Have you determined if you are going integrated or amp only? I will be able to lean a on my experience with each for some additional thoughts
Best,
JP
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Thank you! Accuphase amps have a very classic look indeed. My current setup has a more modern look with a color theme of black and silver, and a introduction of one Accuphase could trigger more unexpected future upgrades 
But I’ll find a chance to listen to one.
While in Japan I am planning to visit a jazz club for sure. A place named Blue Note Tokyo looks very interesting. Live jazz and good food is always great! Audition of new amps may have to wait until we come back (unless I have a few hours of free time there).
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If you’re considering integrated amps with a “modern” look you might want to consider this one from Italy. I have one of the lower models in the Family Room system.
We need a report from Luca! Here’s another brand that I have never heard of.
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Were distributed by and shown with Verity by the US distributor for years until Verity decided to make their own amps.
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Well know and respected brand, but I never heard their products.