Power Amplifier - Maximum Resolution & Detail!

I tend to think of detail presentation as being more in the domain of the preamp.  But yes I'm sure the amp also has a lot to say about it.

The two amps that I recall having the most detail were a Levinson ML-23 and a Counterpoint hybrid amp (can't remember the model number).  

I'd still be using the Levinson if it hadn't cooked itself to death and wanted $3000 for refurb (I'll save that for my 6oth birthday).  The Counterpoint had a lovely sound but I traded it in for something I was craving at the time. 

Sometimes I think added detail gets fatiguing if it's really over-emphasis of treble.  It takes me long term listening to know what I really enjoy. 

Immathewj, I feel they are heavy!  I have the 805B with an upgraded auto-bias option which I’ve not been able to find any info about anywhere.  

To the best of my recollection, as I’ve not had them in my system for a while, they offer a very robust and full sound.  Smooth without any higher frequency etchiness or glare, soundstages well and is the kind of amp that draws you in for relaxed, extended listening.  Some will argue that their 50 watts isn’t enough for many speakers but in my experience they drove everything I threw at them, to include the Maggie 1,7i’s in both of my small listening rooms (12x16 and 13x14).

The only drawbacks to me are that they are a bit cumbersome and heavy and will generate enough heat to warm my room a bit.  Other than those two things, and the cost of replacement tubes, I think they are fantastic amps.

I’m an Audio Research fan. To me they have the very best imaging and detail.  I’m also impressed with the Burmister solid state units. Since you have no budget next year my advice ia buy a set of Audio Research 330m monoblocks.  

With that budget you have a lot of options! I don’t have experience with any class D options listed above, I have owned top models from Luxman, ML, Pass Labs, Krell and Accuphase. All were very good as I lean towards Class A with SS amplifiers. I know ARC reference gear has went to KT120, KT150 output tubes in their current models but I preferred the 6550 tubes in the older REF110 I use to use with my Quad ESL57’s(modded). I did experience the same feeling with the Benchmark Amps on a friend’s system where he ended up selling and finding a tube amplifier he preferred better. I ended up going to full tube system, 93db horn speakers with Miyajima OTL Mono’s, Triode Labs/Finale 300b Monday RSR mono’s, FIrst Watt amplifiers and never looked back.

Another vote for Boulder !