Building new system starting with power amp. What would you choose ?

Minimalist, but not totally:

I must have remote volume, mute, and remote balance from my listening position.to refine individual tracks the engineer’s didn’t get perfect. Or the equipment/system isn't getting it perfectly. Balance, enjoy now, check everything in the morning.

A very small balance adjustment can make a large difference to imaging, not just the center i.e. singer, but more distinctive localization of backup singers, other musicians, giving a more involving experience.

Another advantage: If you learn to listen for, appreciate distinct instruments, imaging, then when it is OFF, it is not easy to ’let it go’.

R2R, you have individual volume settings L and R, watching meters is one thing, and who knows when matching signal strength l/r are correct using the beginning of a program’s content. delivered sound to your listening position is the real thing.

The ML-2 certainly set a benchmark for SS class A amplification! 

elliottbnewcombjr: the OP wants an amplifier as a starting point for building a system around. Strictly a fantasy exercise! So I offered a great classic amp from the past and two radically different speakers that can work with it!

This is not a theoretical exercise for me.  I'm there.  I didn't exactly start with my amps, which are Atma-Sphere M-60s, but anything I do going forward will start with these amps.  I might as well pour concrete around them.  They aren't going anywhere. 

A ZOTL amplifier of David Berning....

No question, what else?

It is the only tube amplifier, with almost illimited tube life, no heat, and the qualities of tube amplifier+ S.S. design.... Price at low level /high quality

Pairing them with a pair of speakers i dont know which to chose yet...