did i read that amp costs $8K+???

$8,995 is the MSRP without amp to speaker output which is additional. Keep in mind, this is not going to be a mass produced item. I don't think that's the market being pursued here. It is like commissioning an artist for a painting or sculpture or custom built anything for that matter. This is high level boutique. I think this amp was built by Dana initially just for the purpose of demo-ing the Danacable line of HP cables at shows. But he got some inquires. Each one has to be built by hand and adjusted sound-wise to the customer's personal requirements for sound. (It might even be a back and forth project). It's possible this may have application in the commercial sector more than personal. There are other audio products out there with a boutique approach I'm certain and I consider this one as one of many in the $5,000 to $10,000 price bracket. I understand there are a very few of these Head-Spaces out there in the wild.

And,

And,

I was just lucky to be able to audition this (thanks to Vinh) and provide some feedback, and while at it, because I don't believe in making comment on something without comparison's popping into my mind, the comparison review took shape and I thought I'd share it.

As for price? There are a lot of significantly comparable as well as more expensive audio gear out there in all categories and price brackets from many manufacturers. It's up to every individual to listen for themselves and determine if it is something they are willing to pay for, or not.

I enjoy reading about multi-hundred thousand dollar speaker set ups, (and have heard a few over the years) but I would never, ever consider purchasing one. However, that much money would get me a primo box seat at the Kimmel for more years than I have left.

it's only money but that is a bit high for something with vague tested specs and reputation on line is very limited- I know the RSA stuff I reviewed was expensive too but their reputation is irrefutable

thanks for review man I hope one day to have the time and ability to review that as well... for now my Ray Samuels will do as my end game headamp/preamp

I would love to more about how the variable voicing actually works, but that may be proprietary info or something so far over my head I couldn't understand it anyway.
Specs can be interesting and a look under the hood hypnotic what with eyes wide open and lots of ooh-ing and ah-ing.
Then there is the feature set and aesthetic aspects too, it's all a part of the fun and enjoyment for me.
But for better or worse I have always trusted my ears to tell me whether or not I like something even without pages of documentation.
And the acid test of course is to live with a piece for an extended period, like, way beyond the honeymoon

Nice review, I would maybe start by specifying it is a custom piece to some degree as it sounds like if I set out to order one it's very likely it won't sound entirely like yours does...so the comparison and review as a whole is a bit moot given this is FLTWS's Custom DanaTon Head-Space

This was not set up for me, just the way Dana wanted it set up to get feedback (I think) on the sound as he set it up. This unit has been thru several listeners before me and at least one after me because I mailed it directly to him from here.