Hi Norman,
I'm located in Bettendorf. I spend most of my audio-related time designing speakers, but am interested in the rest too.
I've spent time with the designer of the Solstace kit at diy events over the years - great guy - very talented and knowledgeable.
The Nakamichi TA series is quite good - I had a TA-3A for a while. I think the power section is a little better than the pre, but it's definitely one of the top receivers from the 1980's. The only one I am sure I liked better was the Luxman R-117.
Welcome aboard! I'm not sure exactly where you are located, but I can at least help connect you with speaker nerds close to you if you need that...