How many tube watts for Vandersteen 2's?

Those 35 watts are magical, though Roger would say "nonsense" to that. But I think it would work for you. I owned the Music Reference RM9 Special Edition which was a limited run ($10,000), point-to-point wiring version of the RM9 with a different driver stage than the std RM9s, that put out 162 watts into 8ohms. It was one of the finest amps I have ever heard - the RM10 was good enough to let me sell it, something I never thought I would do. Buy one used, you'll sell it in a few hours if it doesn't work for you in your room - only you can tell. You could also get two and run them in mono for 70 watts/8ohms if you love the sound but just feel the need for more power. Roger had them on sale for $1550 during the recession, might still be able to get them at that price. I use mine with Merlin VSMs which are more sensitive and an easier load, but I run it off the 4ohm tap which drops the power to 27watts (but more current reserve)and it never, ever, seems to be running out of juice. I think Richard recommends 40 watts min with the 2s, but I would trust Trelja's observations (they are tube watts afterall.)

Buy one used, you'll sell it in a few hours if it doesn't work for you in your room - only you can tell.

That's the problem with trying to find a used RM10--they vanish before I can even see them. Happened just yesterday. Didn't even get to see the price.

I think Richard recommends 40 watts min with the 2s

He does and that's what prompted my concern. But Trelja's observations pushes me over the edge. The smallest Atma-sphere S-30 would probably do well as well? But those seem to be even rarer than the RM10's.

To the original poster: there's an upgraded RM200 for sale right now (no relation to me) at 40 watts. Too spendy for me, but might work for you.

I think the S30 would not be a good match, very different kind of amps in terms of delivering current. I think you would need M60s and maybe even Speltz autoformers to drive Vandersteens with the lower powered Atma-spheres, but expecially the S30 - not ideal, I would think.

Thanks Pubul57. Good to know since I would have bought them had they shown up at a decent price. the M60's generate too much heat, I've read. I live basically in the desert, so no go.

Back to your original question though, and already answered, if you like the sound VTLs (what's not to like)85 watts is enough watts:)