Sadly when you start talking high value amplifiers you will find that the dealers will be pretty reluctant to let you just walk out with a demo unit. Most will want at least a credit card ' purchase ' before they let you away with a demo. Problem is that if you do not like what they have on offer you will mostly find that they get a bit huffy and the relationship is going downhill.
I think you will need to do some legwork around your better quality dealers and try to narrow things down. It IS going to be confusing but I am sure you will find something out of the blue that will ring your bell.
At that stage I would suggest taking your boys into the dealer , they will be interested too you know , and it is also a sign to them that you are not just a tire kicker.
I hope you have an enlightening experience.
Mac