D'Agostino vs. Ayre

The winner, at least for my ears and in my system, has yet to be determined. But the Ayre MX-R Twenties certainly play at the upper level and are competitive with anyone. So far, I have auditioned and declined Krell, Mark Levinson, Pass Labs, and Audio Research amplification.

The description by Khrys is pretty much dead on to what I think.  The Ayre is good, but I prefer the D'Agostino by a large margin.  I prefer a little more flesh on the bone than the Ayre has.  The pride of ownership with Dan's products is off the charts too.

I haven't had a chance to listen to any D'Agostino amps but my Ayre Ax-5 Twenty is the best integrated I've ever heard. Better than most separates. Btw, I also own several other Ayre  products and the guys over at Ayre are great. Just like anything else in audio the correct speaker match is a must. The Ayre amps in my opinion is especially good with Vandersteen speakers.  

Why are the Ayre amps good with Vandersteens? Are the Vandys darker? Does the illuminating quality of the Ayres compliment that?