Help me understand the current amp market


I've been doing some research in regards to amplifiers in hopes of purchasing one some time in the near future. However, it's difficult to navigate all the different models and what makes them exactly special. For starters, which amplifier manufacturers are actually coming up with innovative technologies and which ones are more "assemblers" of slightly modified parts? Pilium, for example, is getting a lot of buzz, but the CEO is an ex gym owner that's an audio enthusiast and not an electrical engineer. So what makes them stand out? Also, I'm seeing companies like Solution and Jeff Rowland using switched mode power supplies. Are these truly better than the traditional toroidal transformers? I understand that you need to listen to them to truly understand each amplifier's significance. However, since it's almost impossible to listen to all of them in the same environment, I'd like to narrow my selection by which ones technological sound good first. Any help would be appreciated.

jyaki

That’s a very broad question, can you tell us a bit more about your system, listening space size, budget and music preferences? From there I think we could help narrow down the types of amplifiers that might be a good fit.  

There are lots of different types of amps and budgets. You might want to narrow your question a little. What are your speakers?

Do you like class a, tubes, digital. You will find people in all different camps.

I would start with Linear Tube Audio whose amps are based on David Berning’s novel ZOTL circuit topology and power supply architecture. Bulletproof, lightweight, extended tube life, and super quiet. Amazing sound quality and not stupid expensive. If your interest is in amps that are doing something different, and doing it well, rather than bling boxes with recycled technology and a great marketing plan LTA are them. 

Here’s the budget amp champion: Fosi V3 Mono with 48 volt power supply.120/240watts@8/4ohms. Over 300 watts@1ohm. Price $280 a pair! Lookout all you manufacturers of Five$$$figure amps!

My system is actually in my home office and consists of Wisdom Audio L8i in-wall speakers with a Wisdom Audio SCS-2 subwoofer. I'm currently using a Luxman 509-X integrated amp with a Mola Mola Tambaqui DAC. For speaker wires, I'm using Acrolink DUCC copper cables. I'm looking to upgrade my Luxman to separates or a different integrated amplifier