what are some of the best amplifiers

Hey - why the harsh words?

I say that my old refurbed QUAD mkII tube blocks sound better than most $20K amps out there!
I also recently got a set of very rare Audio Geometry PMA-25 mono solid-state blocks. They're not fancy or huge but their sound is extremely detailed. They have very good control over the speakers and are a pleasure to listen to. My one friend was quite impressed with these little babies.

It doesnt ever mean that bigger and more expensive is better! Look at how some Fisher receivers sound absolutely breathtaking. I dare to contradict! I will put my set of KEF C55's (custom modified) up against a set of Zingali Overture 4 speakers with no shame... if a piece of audio-gear works then why fight it?

Just my point of view.
DV

Speaking of nice amps, try finding a pair of Marantz Esotec MA 5 Monos.

If you can get your hands on a Krell KSA 100, or any of the KSA series, you'll have something.
East Side Kid

I can back and will back that the Threshold SA/4e is one of the best ever solid state power amplifiers made. A true classic and as time goes on the SA/4e becomes even harder to find in original spec.

IMHO, I believe that an amplifier is mated to upstream componenets and downstream (speakers) components, which play a huge role in how the system will sound. I have had several good amplifiers in my day which have sounded marvelous with one set of speakers (and room placement), and dry and lifeless with another. So . . . I guess it depends on the gestalt.