I don’t think amp makers will make amps which have everything their mono blocks have in their 2 ch amps. Not even in their dual mono single box setups. In fact there are a lot of ‘mono’ amps which are merely ‘bridged’ stereo amps, even if dual mono on one chassis. It’s a cost effective idea.
As such, within that brand, there would be no reason for buying their monos… apart from a slim chance the monos had greater power output, but then they would not be the same as their 2 ch counterparts yet again.
Its all about $$$$. Topology isn’t always the big deal with some amps, say tube amps for example. There are tube monos running sE only. Very nice ones.
There is a very good argument which paralelles this thread…. Fully differentially balanced or single ended designs, which is best?
Cost no object (C.N.O.) builds of either SE or XLR amps should have the balanced amps doubling the costs of the SE amps provided both amps were made . of identical parts as the XLR amps use effectively a twin SE arrangement or twice the parts list essentially..
Power supplys are where most all upgrades, mods, performance enhancements begin despite the device, but especially with amplifiers. Stereo amps run nearly the gamut dual mono 2 ch amps run but their power sups as previously said already get upgraded… pretty often in a dual stereo amp.
If kept within the brand, Monos, worth their salt in design, build and topology are generally going to on paper at least out perform the other two amp entries.
However, there are some stereo amps sitting on one chassis which cost way more than some other brand’s mono blocks. Way more!! Way better sounding too.
It all comes down to $$$. That and preffs. If on the short list, I’ll opt for monos every time, provided…. Performance is better, the added costs are part and parcel their requirements for gaining that added edge. Albeit, wires, platforms, power cords, etc..
Size and space are considerations too. I’ve owned dual mono amps that are quite the monsters to move about the house, or even just a few feet from there to here and mono blocks that were far lighter and easier to rearrange physically.
All that said, recent Integrated amps from some very upscale amp makers seem to be making a great argument for themselves in terms of ‘voice’, synergy, and simplicity.
Mono block amps indeed do not have to be in the mix for a system to sound great and perform exceptionally well.