How does Aragon 24k/2004 stack up to modern equip?

There is nothing wrong with Aragon, very good products that have stood the test of time for reliability and performance that exceeds their going prices. Recommending interconnects is hit and miss, trying different ones is the only way to get the desired sound you are seeking with your associated components, speakers, and your unique room acoustics.

Rgs92, your point is well taken. But to be fair you are comparing good midfi to the very best in solid state, Nelson Pass is legendary.

Out of all the Aragon amps I like the 2004 the best for sound quality. You don't see them for sale too often.

Rgs92, I will have to come clean and agree with your conclusion on the Aragon 8000 series. Since most of the music and vocals hang out in the midrange, the 8000 series does sound flat here. But the earlier models, the Aragon 2004 and 4004 are not plagued by this problem, they sound totally different. If I didn't have a great deal of money to spend I could easily live with the Aragon 2004 or if I needed more power the 4004 would fit the bill nicely.

Well, one could spend alot of money on audio gear. This gear can possibly float the airest highs, have a full midrange to die for and deliver tight and tuneful bass, in alot of cases it will, the law of diminishing returns do apply. There are instances a system of this magnitude has had the musicality engineered right out of it, presenting a sterile sound. I have been on both sides of the fence. The Aragon 2004 & 4004 properly set up & matched with other components can deliver a satisfying presentation capturing most of the elements that audiophiles seek. I think if we could set aside the adjectives that describe a superior system for a moment and ask yourself this question, was the presentation enjoyable and satisifying? I rest my case.