Best amp for ML Z Quests?

CONRAD JOHNSON Hands down.Solid state,try the PASS AUDIO amps but at least 100 wpc.Good luck.

Steve, I agree with you - Meridian amps are very good from my experience which is showroom only, I've been very impressed every time I hear them. I have always had Meridian digital - they don't seem to put much sales emphasis on their amps. Happy Listening!

I own Monoliths, have friends with Quest Z, and SL3. I have heard all of them driven by Levinson amps (20.0, 23, and 27). I have heard the Quests driven by McIntosh tube amps and AR tube amps (although I don't know which model). I have also heard the SL3 and Monolith driven by Krell amps (KAV on the SL3 and KMA 160 on the Monolith). I did not care for the Krell (great bass, but not smooth enough on the top end for me). I also did not care for the McIntosh--it sounded rather mushy and not well defined--too tubby. The AR and the Levinson were the best. The AR offered a very nice bloom and large soundstage. It did not have the bass control that the Levinson did and did not have quite as clear a definition--but a great sound. For me I chose the Levinson, but that's just personal taste. I think the AR was equally as good, but different. Now that I am bi-amping I would love to hear the AR again on just the panels. I think that would be a really great combination.

Your aim for VT100 is right on for a successfull setup.
The most successful setup(i believe)in the price range you want to spend will be with pair of BAT VK60 monos (~$4000 used) 120W/ch in mono configuration.
For successfull SS amp you will have to spend at least 2x more for a used one.

$8,000, minimum, for a USED ss amp to drive ml z quests? that's utter nonsense. there are numerous ss amps by the likes of jrdg, accuphase, muse, pass, ayre etc. that will drive these speakers admirably, which you can find here on audiogon for $1000-4000. -cfb