what are some of the best amplifiers

Forte are some excellent amps for the $$$. For clarification, the Model 4(a) is MUCH better than the Model 6, gotta love the pure Class A bias. However, in overall terms the old Threshold's are better, no doubt about it.

If just naming some classic SS amps, I'll throw in my current favorites, the Jeff Rowland Model 6 monoblocks.

John

I really think one should get a good legendary pair of monoblocks and learn their ways in and out in order to make them sound their best in any system.

Those are words of wisdom.

My Forte 4a will be put up for sale and the money used to upgrade components in my legendary monoblocks:

Marantz Ma-5 Esotec.

The 4a is more powerful and with slightly better HF extension. However, there is NO comparison in musicality: these 30W class A monoblocks put out the 'to die for' midrange and holographic presentation of tube amps along with the sonic neutrality and beef of solid state. Their bass is more extended than the Forte's. However, I also keep them from handling low bass, as they were originally intended to be used with subs. I use a Dan Wright modded Marchand X9 Deluxe x-over* followed by a pair of Kenwood L-07M high current monoblocks (also legendary). The x-over frequency is 80 Hz with a 24dB/octave slope--a perfect match!

* Danny Boy modded the x-over in order to optimize its interaction with a Channel Islands passive pre. This results in the stunning clarity of a passive combined with slam and constant output impedance of an active preamp. It sounds OK.

***

Belles 350A Reference. A sure to be classic.

ARC 100.2
Do a search.
One of the few amps actually increasing in value on the used market over the last couple years! And for very good reason.
Easily the best of several dozen amps I have auditioned.

Joe,

I know your still living in your parents basement listening to their one box Panasonic unit and borrowing their car for your job at Mcdonalds. Have you ever been with a woman(beside your sister)?