I am using Marantz MA 700 mono's. There ok but not great. I have those until I can upgrade. I did bring home Jeff Rowland 112. It was close to perfect for me. I immediately heard how much better the Jeff Row was. I wanted just a little more warmth and perhaps with with cardas cables and a better pre it would be just right. Right now using Yamaha pre outs on receiver. Also demoed at the store an Ayre V-1 amp. Wow! Nothing could be harsh with that amp. When the time is right I'll bring that one home to try.
Audioquest ruby IE. Don't know what on speaker cable.