Well, in perspective, the Hegel retailed for $3500 at the time the Set 120 was probably $1000. The Hegel, mine anyhow had more connectivity with its dac, pre outs and XLR, has 3X the power. And it had to come to the US through customs, a distributor and the retail showrooms. The Hegel cost more than the comparable Parasound Int. at the time too and those two amps were comparable although I preferred the SQ of the Hegel by a margin.
There are alot of other amps of various design that were and still are much more in price. At the time I saw the Hegel as a high performance and reliable product at a still affordable price in a more high end audio product which I believe it was and probably still is. Not a budget product by any means but a good one and competitive among its peers.
The VA I purchased knowing its limitations was solely due to its SQ as reported by users, and given its positive long history in business. And at a slightly used discounted price helped.
When the owner, who isn't a only a one person operation passes, that may be the end of V/A as we know them. Just like Croft over in England did. Parasound was bought out. Hegel will probably pass hands too.
But that happens with audio companies. Buy a good product whether the Company is there or not in a few years as its meant to be enjoyed, for as long as possible.
I still think Hegel is a good product and within reach. Used prices are decent for buyers, I know its relative.
The truly high end and far less accessible products even discounted are outside the reach of many. How much more that gives you, I don't know. Maybe a more you are there performance at louder SPLs, but I don;t want that either.
Lots of good products that satisfy at various prices under or over a grand, which is good for all of us.