Best Values and worst values in SS and tube amps ?

I like the Aronov for its fair value in comparison to the other big names, but the fact that its performance is excellent to superior doesn't seem to be primary criterion to the member who initiated this discussion. The recent Aronov LS960I tube integrated for something like $1350 mint in box was actually the "best value" buy of the year on used Audiogon postings. If I didn't already own one then it would have found at least one eager buyer. The used listings are sometimes amazingly reasonable for any brand you care to mention. As a bargain hunter I find all mainstream, high quality tube equipment from the big names too expensive at full retail. But labeling a "worst value" company out of so many high priced companies seems a petty slam against one, and a shorthand way to trash a great performing product line. Looking for the worst value is not my idea of enjoying a hobby, although I feel it is necessary to defend a company accused without even the detailed comparisons to supposedly support such a sweeping claim. My own experience is that the performance of my Aronov has favorably surprised owners of the other big name brands with comparable used and new prices. Aronov simply doesn't deserve to be archived with this type of discussion headline. Anyway, amplifier value relates to the entire system, including what type of speakers need driving, and what size room needs to be filled with music. Aronov makes a variety of speakers sing in my systems, and when purchased used (like all my equipment) is a "best value."

Three Aronov owners have already taken the time to point out their favorable experiences, but the fact that they may be enjoying "tight" bass, "clear" imaging, and lack of audible transformers does not erase the fact that Audiogon is the voice of the people, including each individual. If one person is determined to knock one company's product then this constitutes one vote. It is necessary to point out that there is at least one individual (and sometimes more than one) with a negative opinion of virtually any item in comparison to others. This is evident in reading discussions over the years. I think Aronov owners feel protective of "our" company, because the company is so invisible to the greater audiophile community. When its only mention in the archived discussion is so uncomplimentary then one wishes to defend against such a dismissive attitude. Still, as a premise, discussing "worst value" in audio is not going to attract the positive energy and helpful posts for which Audiogon is known. I guess I should dismiss this entire thread as "worst value." My first flame ever, and I feel better already. Notice how each of us can be an army of one in a multi-channel audio world.