I have never climbed a golden stair case nor have I ever, or will I ever audition a $80,000 dollar amp or $100,000 set of speakers. I can say though, that I have (after many hours of listening and comparing and within the limits of my budget) a system that sounds very nice in my environment playing the kinds of music I enjoy. It's a pleasure to know there are still a few very good US, Canadian and European companies that still produce some very fine, equipment at a reasonable cost and maintain a high level of customer service for us common folk.
Jim
Jim