Re: Nick and Richidoo,
I do have the D Sachs Model 2 preamp, so Don's KT-88 amp is one of the top contenders for sure. I'm also curious about Line Magnetic amplifiers. I could probably buy an LM amp for a couple grand less than what they cost in the US, but I haven't looked into this yet.
As for SS amps...well, I've approached Klaus at Odyssey Audio about his absolute top of the line kick ass amp. He would be happy to sell me the 2-channel version of his personal mono amps (no space in my living room for mono amps). I like the price, but the sucker will weigh about 67 lbs! My cheap WAF approved eguipment rack would shatter under that weight, and I shudder to think of the shipping charges to Taiwan. Sigh. My buddy in Oregon urges me to get the Modwright KWA-150 (?), but it's equally heavy and more expensive. Other famous brands come to mind, but most of them are 60 to 80 pounds. (double sigh).
There are Taiwan amp manufacturers- both SS and tube - that are options. Some are actually very good quality, but they're more expensive than either Don's KT-88 or Klaus's top amp.
Luckily for me, I have a few months to decide. I already have a Nuprime ST-10 amp in Taiwan, but it's not quite at the level of the above mentioned amps. Geez. I'm even wondering if my Gustard X20u DAC is good enough. Strap me down, blindfold me, and take my credit cards away!
Shit. This is how it happens, isn't it? You buy a kick ass component and suddenly realize (or imagine?) your other gear may not be up to the task. "Hello. My name is Michael, and I'm an audioholic."
