New amp

I just bought a pair of MB-450 monoblocks, but I haven't listened to them all that much yet because I'm waiting for my speakers to be delivered. There's a signature version of the 450 as well which has the signature output transformer (and newer version have an upgraded input stage and MIT capacitors I think). You might be thinking of the signature II which has the auto-bias and fault sensing. I don't think they're high maintenance, but I'm not sure what you may think is high maintenance. There's 8 tubes in each monoblock that need to be changed every 3 years or so probably, and you'll need to check the bias every 6 months or so. It's really easy to do as long as you have a multimeter... just pop the cover and the bias probes are right there.

Well finally bit the bullet and sprung for a BAT VK600 amp. I think that with the extra juice I'll be able to enjoy listening and may even be able to hear a more pleasant sound.

Anything with Ayre on it should be on your short list.

I did listen to the bigger ayre with totem winds and it was very nice. Great system stringreen!