John Baloff @ Theta Digital
The folks at Martin Logan
Larry Zurowski at Magnum Dynalab
Jeff Poor at Balanced Audio Technology
Paul McGowan at P.S.Audio
As for down-to-earth dealers who try hard to understand the needs of it's customers. Fred Kat of Katli Audio in Chino Hills, California is one of the nicest, most sincere individuals I've ever encountered.
Too many snobbish, arrogant jerks in high-end audio in my opinion. Been to C.E.S. in Las Vegas for the last 15 years in a row. Many nice manufacturers and dealers, but entirely too many assholes and condescending nimrods who claim to be the know-it-alls and put down other companies wares. Same is true in the Los Angeles area. Been to a few too many audio stores full of jerks. IMHO.