High-end amplifier clarification?


At what point do you consider an amplifier high-end? And, why? What is a good example of a non-high end amp that just misses being high-end? Also, what is an example of an amplifier that just makes it into your high-end rankings?
ska_man
I listened to some Boulder amps today...I think if an amp weighs more than your car, it's high end.
Wolf garcia, you are correct, Boulder amps are high-end. The Adcom 565 mono blocks also are heavy with very large power supplies but they do not sound high-end. Just a case in point.
Atmasphere, Weseixas answer is very vague plus his statement that an amplifier should have the ability to drive a 2 ohm load otherwise he considers it midfi, is misleading. But if you do some searching under his user name you will see that his statement reflects his frustration to find an amp that will drive ribbon speakers. -Phd

No frustration ,

I can build my own ( i have) or buy what i want ( done so 2 ) A true high end amp should be a perfect voltage source IMO, end of story.

Atmasphere:
Sound is very subjective, one man's euphoria is another' anathema. An amplifiers job is that of an voltage source, expensive high end amplifiers that cannot replicate such, is well ................

A Pretender.

Regards,
Wolf garcia, you are correct, Boulder amps are high-end. The Adcom 565 mono blocks also are heavy with very large power supplies but they do not sound high-end. Just a case in point.
-Phd

Agree the sound is , well, but they do not cost high end money and will see off many pretenders IMO, maybe even one of your favorites..

regards,
Weseixas what amps do you feel are hi end and which are not in your experience?
Is the 2 ohm load spec you mention your current speaker load?