Some lean toward the 'musical' camp, and some towards the 'detail' camp. Threshold, Classe, Rowland, tend to be 'musical' ss amps. While Krell, Mark Levinson represent the 'detail' camp. It depends on your associated equipment as to what you choose. I'm using a Threshold T 400 currently, IMHO, you can not beat this amp for under $2K. I tend to prefer the older models though, for instance, I felt the Levinson 23.5 was better built, and sounded better than the 33_ series. I also felt that the Classe DR-9 sounded better than the CA-200. I like the older Krells better too. Maybe I'm just nostalgic, or maybe they don't make 'em like they used too.
Does Threshold equal newer amp designs?
I remember in the 80's when Threshold had, to my ears, a more full-bodied, richer sound than other SS amps. Some called it a solid-state tube sound. Yet others thought they were analytical and sterile. There are those who think they sound as good or better than even the respected newer stuff out now. Why is Threshold still a popular item in the used market, if later designs are better? I'd like the opinions of former & current Threshold owners, and why you switched or didn't.