Mark Levinson 27.5 versus modern day amps

That's very sad. I think, American solid state amplification can no longer compete with European and maybe even Australian. Some might say it never could. I don't know this but even if they are right the gap appears to be widening.

If you go to Europe or Australia they are all lusting for American muscle SS amps.  You always think your neighour's grass is greener.

Had the 27.5 and yes it was a very good amp.   Not the world's best or hidden treasure of high end but still very respectable.  AB against a Soulution poweramp and while it lost out it was not too far behind.  Moved on since long time ago and not look back.

That is a very respectful comment for the 27.5. Which Soulution amp did you compare it against? 

Testpilot I think the US market has gravitated to smaller one box solutions in recent years as real estate has skyrocketed resulting in audiophiles in crowded or expensive locations to downsize. They do not want to have larger and heavy components taking up space.  Class D has come a long way but I still don't think it has reached transistor based SS sound quality.  Just my opinion :)

The US still has the largest average living space compared to the rest of the world (perhaps Australia is larger, but the point is the same)

That may be true but I am referring to crowded high priced areas such as San Francisco, New York, etc...Smaller living spaces that people don't want bigger gear stuffed in tight spaces. My main point of reference is someone who lives in the Bay area and has been an audiophile for years with tons of friends who have downsized.  Hey more muscle amps on the market for us haha :)