I have heard both the JVC ES-1, and a Sharp in my system, in the last year.
1 - I assume that you are meaning strictly for 2 channel use.
2 - I assume that you have speakers that are an 8 ohm load.
3 - I assume that your speakers are at medium efficiency or more.
4 - I assume that you could care less that the Sharp includes a cd player.
5 - I assume that both would fit on whatever rack you use.
I need to make these assumptions, because in my experience, they would push the decision in different directions, depending. So, if you are looking for something that can drive a 4 ohm load, you will go with the Sharp. If you are using 85db efficient speakers, in a medium or larger room, then the JVC is your better bet. If you would need to buy a cd player, then the Sharp might do it. If you have space considerations etc.
All that said, using high efficiency speakers (96db or so) I found the sound of the modded Sharp to be better. I had Vinnie's Red Wine Sharp EX-111 for a couple of weeks earlier this year, and owned the JVC briefly last Fall. My best friend has the JVC now, and I returned the Sharp, as it was not quite the ticket for me.
The best, and sure lotsa folks like what they have..., in my system is the little JVC EX-A1 off eBay for around $200 or so. Same functionality as the Sharp (ie tuner, pre, amp, and cd player in one, with remote etc) with a little more power (30wpc vs 20wpc for the Sharp as I recall) and really does well with my speakers in my room.
That last part won't help you, but if you can share a little more about your system, and the room, I bet some folks will chime in with some useful stuff!
