How does high-pass filter requirement affect system decisions?

I'm not sure it affects choices so much as dynamic range.

Since bass signals soak up most of the voltage swing, eliminating that from the amp's output means all of the voltage/power swing is available for the mid and treble. Also, the amp acts more "stiffly" than otherwise. Like you mention the high current requirements are reduced, so the power supply sags less.

In general, no, you don't need massive amps for the top part of a bi-amped system. As for the rest of the quality, I don't know. :) I mean I really like the sound of Ayre, but bi-amped, Parasound A23's may work just as well.

Best,


Erik

I would contact Mr. Vandersteen and ask for his opinion. There's nothing better than from the 'horse's mouth.

Glad you asked this question, as I'd been pondering it myself.  Doesn't it make sense that going bi-amped with Vandersteen powered loudspeakers is an invitation to go with tubes for the upper range?  I say this as a curious Vandersteen 5A owner with a SS McIntosh stereo amp in the mix.  

I think it gives you a lot more flexibility for experimentation. 

I'm very happy with my AX-7e. Of course, I'm interested what an Ayre upgrade would do, but I think $12k of new music would bring more satisfaction than $12k of new hardware. 

I do feel like my break-in process took much longer than expected (assuming predominantly the components downstream of the high-pass filter). When I bought the Quatros, I also bought Pangea 9-gauge power cables for each speaker, 2 pair of Audioquest CV-8 speaker cables, Audioquest Colorado XLR cables for all my sources (along with Pangea power cables) and an Ayre L-5xe power conditioner. Oh, and the new crossover capacitors dropped into the AX-7e. These probably all play a factor. 

It's interesting how loudly you can play the system without any sense of strain. 

@nrenter You mention getting Pangea 9-gauge AC cables for your Vandersteen speakers.  Did these fit the low profile IEC plugs on the Vandy's?  A lot of AC cords don't . . .

thanks!