"the best" is so objective to ears" Everyones ears are different to what they hear. I have been through so many preamps, stereo and mono amps, in my 35+ years of audio, its insane, i am so tired or buying, selling etc etc.
I have found MY keepers, they are from Steve McCormack audio. he is a genius, and CJ helped (will give you an idea of what i have)
My 2nd system uses the RORbert Carver signature 600 amp (another keeper !!!!!)
backup amps Odyssey Stratos, amazing clarity, and detail.
I’m done for a while...............
BUT, still need a cd player thats RELIABLE. too bad they DO NOT exist !!!!!!!
pioneer elite dv-79avi has been good so far.......................