Best Preamp/amp combo?

I am using a Berning ZH-270 with a Modwright SWL 9.0SE Plus (Blackgate/Bybee) combo. This pair drives Merlin's and the music just flows.

You might really like McCormack DNA-500 amp with VAC Phi 2.0 preamp - great synergy.

Here is a solid combo :

Modwright SWL9.0 SE Linestage

Levinson 23.5, 336 or 20.5, 33H monoblocks

Personally I'd look for a 23.5 or an older set of 20.5 monoblocks.

Supratek preamp (Syrah) --> McCormack DNA Platinum Series (SMC Audio)

Of course, as I am sure you understand, you will need to audition any gear that people recommend to see what works best for your tastes.

That said, Linn gear mates very well with Sonus Faber. If going with Linn, the ideal (but pricey) combination would be the Klimax Kontrol and the Klimax Solo 500 monoblocks. To save considerably financially and not lose too much acoustically, you could substitute the Klimax Twin for the Klimax Solos. I am very fond of the Linn sound - fast, and very detailed. It is of course not your only option, but one you really should audition if you can.