Right on, Cheapskate! Amazing how so many folks mentally redefine words to fit their own (usually argumentative) needs of the moment. The list says, "recommended," not "compulsory." Nobody has to BELIEVE any of this, and Mr. Atkinson's introduction to the section every time it runs SAYS this, in so many words. He also notes that one can assemble as good a system with well-chosen Class "C" components as one can with mismatched Class "A" components, something the whiners often forget. I guess some people just need lists to tell them what to do, instead of using them as guidelines. Cheers, Clifton.

None of my system is on the LIST, except some FOCUS. I had them way before StereoPhile decided to acknowledge them. Soon to be replaced by WHISPER they are shipping today. so where is the VanAlstine stuff, Ultra Hybrid pre amp, OmegaStar EX rebuilds of the great Haflers, or AVA own Ultra Hybrids, get in touch with VanAlstine, it's the best service ya can do for the readers. It only took how many years to see the FOCUS...i don't need no stinkin' list to justify my ears. It's called LIVe music, not a list by wire listeners. There is no sound in snake oil or magic connectors. There is sound in properly designed and engineered speakers and electronics. Oh, i do also use teh BenchMark DAC..ooops, had that before it appeared in StereoPhile, i don't see any RANE in StereoPhile www.RANE.COM pro stuff, no magic connectors or vibration goo. Just nice solid 19" RACK faces, without $40,000 worth of metal work

My Craftsman binding post wrench isn't on the list either. I wonder what Stereophile has against Craftsman? It's at least as good as the Audioquest binding post wrench and mine even has a highly polished chrome finish.

This smacks of elitism.

Hehe - I dig the list - informative and entertaining!