An audio component you just can't let go


What is a component you just can't seem to let go or sell even after you've already upgraded and not really using it anymore. What makes this component so special?

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I've got and old Audio Research VT130 amp that was kind of "thrown in" on a purchase I made some years ago. It had a blown screening resistor (that kept blowing thanks to a failing 12BH7 tube that tested OK) I replaced a number of resistors and bought a matched tube set for it from ARC ($2100 GULP). The 'ol girl just sounds so warm and sweet with such a silent black background that I just keep finding "second location" systems to include it in. For now it's job is to make a pair of Maggie 2.7s sing in my small office. It doubles as a space heater in the winter and smells wonderful when it's warmed up. 

I suppose it's true romance. 

I will never sell my four Krell KAS2 monblocks or the Krell KCR-HR preamp and, of course, never never my Linn Sondek LP12 which have been with me since 1988.

@mesch A friend is currently using the Mirage M760s with a rebuilt Sony TA-N80ES. I was quite impressed with the sound. The B&K gear is tucked away for safe keeping.

When I bought my new to me Auralic Aries G1 I boxed up my Aries Mini but couldn't bring myself to sell it. For 6 years it was utterly reliable and nearly flawless and I figure I may find use for it again some day.