By far, if cost no object, the VAC integrated is the best. I would also say that it sounds better then any and all separates on the market. Even though it is $20K, you can probably spend twice more and get twice less. There are some exciting solid state monsters in this price range that have an awesome dynamic capability along with hard hitting bass, but you can't get better over-all sound and emotion from music as you will from the VAC.
