How Much Power Do Vandersteen 5a's Really Need?


I just made a deal for a mint condition pair of these. I've long wanted a really good pair of Vandersteens but didn't have the budget to play in that space. I've read a number of discussions here, and otherwise, talking about this, though they were somewhat older. Despite the fact that the low end in these speakers is internally amplified, and one would think even SET amps, or certainly just about any good push pull tube amp would power these superbly, people generally seem to be throwing a LOT of power at them. Am I missing something?

Any input, expertise, or thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.
nightfall
jlmcc lovely system, spend the $ for the analog RS meter, i have the studio 6 on an ipad, it yields somewhat different results. BUT !!!!! awesome job getting them setup.The factory charge to replace batteries is quite reasonable and remember both the internal filters AND the high pass have batteries. congrats on awesome speakers and Brian Berdan is a great guy !!!!

to the OP, Peter should be shipping the loaner cables to you. 


Thanks for the heads up tomic, I’ll track down an RS meter. And yes, Brian replaced all eight batteries between the crossovers and the high pass. 
I was just informed by Vandersteen that due to copyright issues, they can no longer sell, or distribute the Vandertones CD. No idea where to turn now.