Is solid state on the brink of extinction?

Muralman, surely you mean conniption? And if not, you should at least try to define extinction, especially for those of us not as blessed as you.

My Dear, you cannot plagiarize a quote that's already extinct.

Khyrs. Why don't you have your maid give you a warm glass of milk, and tuck you in. You must be running a fever.

Muralman1, please take this in the manner in which it is intended. I'm not trying to unduly attack the Apogees. I'm sure that you'll agree that they are a rather unique speaker. One that puts a unusual load on amps, requires more than typical care regarding placement, and to my ears and I'm led to believe others as well, presents a sonic signature of eleveated lower frequencies and depressed higher frequencies. Despite all this they certainly have their charms. The reason I mention all this, is because I'm curious if you had the opportunity to use the eAR amp on other speakers. Do you think the eAR is that most sought after neutral product or one that just seems to have a synergy with the Apogees?

Unsound, your adult approach to dialogue is refreshing.

There are many models of Apogees. I have happily run some on 100 watt tube amps. All are 4 ohm speakers, or greater, except the Scintilla. Why do I choose the Scintilla? Because it is the finest of all Apogees. I was well aware of it's amp requirements when I bought them.

I am glad that you have heard Apogees. Your characterization of suppressed higher frequencies puzzles me. I have read everything I can find on Apogees, and not once have I heard that criticism before. It certainly doesn't apply to my experience either.

I would think all dipoles require careful positioning. I know for certain, the Scintilla will lose it's highs if wrongly positioned. Maybe that was the case when you heard them.

I have heard just about every speaker out there, and I have yet to yearn for any. The highs in my system extend to out of hearing naturally, without a hint of beaming.

I am absolutely certain the eAR will fit into any system. Obviously it has the power needed for any load. It is beautifully built. Because of the lack of needing heavy heat sinks, or giant transformers, there are big cost savings.

The eAR doesn't sound anything like other digital amps I have heard, including TacT, and the EVO. It really sounds like the finest tubes, only clearer still, with a serious grip on the bass driver. The eAR's mid range dynamics are better than anything I have heard elsewhere. It is in a space of it's own.

So far, people who were ready to hand the cash in, and walk out the door with my X600 blocks, have scoffed at the idea they should listen to the eAR. I have to admit, it is a hard sell. I am not saying people will come around quickly.

I predict as more of us adopt digitals, the faster the movement will spread. Even now, digital amps are being designed for market by many amp manufacturers. I believe they will flood the market within a year.

A group of us (converts all) did take the eAR to a Martin Logan owner's place. In the past, we had listened to the Jolida 1000, Pass X150, Sonic Frontier, and a Llano 300 on the MLs. We all agreed, the eAR bested the lot of them on the Martin Logan.

Cheers