Yamaha vs. AMC amplifier

I have a stereo integrated amp by AMC which I've always loved, it is by far superior to the NAD I had years ago. Now after 7 years, it has died.

I want to replace it with something in the $400 range; my choices are limited, since I want a phono stage in there, too.

AMC makes a successor to my amp called the XIA.
Yamaha makes an amp with phono in this price range.

Years ago I had a Yamaha and I was not happy with the sound. I replaced it with a vintage Meridian at the time that sounded far better.
But I thought with improvements in technology it might be hard to hear any difference between the new AMC and the Yamaha, and I thought maybe the Yamaha would be more durable.
On the other hand the AMC advertises a superior "audiophile grade op-amp" phono stage, and I do love the sound of the phono stage in the old model.

Decisions, decisions.

Thanks,

Sean