Amplifiers:A Keeper for Life. Do you know of one ?

I auditioned the new Decware amp a few months ago. Amazing build and sound quality, with a lot of useful features. Music floated in space, and there was great drive and dynamics. I think if Decware sold through dealers it would cost at least 2-3x the cost they charge direct. Amazing value and I love how they let you configure on the website to your exact requirements.

For me, the merry go round stopped when I found VAC. I just sold my VAC 300.1a amp and am awaiting my VAC 450S. It nails harmonics, speed, resolution, musical drive, timbre...when I listen to VAC it stops being an electronic reproduction of something, and I immediately see the instruments and vocalists. Kevin Hayes at VAC, to my ears, has reached audio nirvana with offerings. My solid state amp is the Conrad Johnson Premier 350, which is definitely a keeper...so much goodness in one enclosure.

Just hooked up last amp I will buy - VAC 450S. Unbelievable. Amazing harmonics, timbre, speed, impact. Spatial and organic fullness make speakers disappear. Worth every penny.

For Magico S5, clearly to my ears the Constellation Centaur.

I think the answer is system dependent to a degree especially the speakers that are being used. I love my Magico S5 speakers and have owned many amps the last few years:
- CJ Premier 350
- Hegel H30
- VAC 300.1a and 450S
- Constellation Centaur
- Air Tight ATM-2
- Marantz MA9S1 monos and MA9S2 monos
The S5s sound their best through the Marantz monos which I tried on a fluke not thinking anything could rival the Constellation which beat all comers with the Magicos.

All great amps but the least expensive won the day - go figure.