Shahinian Obelisk vs VandersteenTreo

(((Atlas stereo and mono both have serious low end vise like control, probably worth looking at vandertones again just to see....
best)))

 Yes agree, solid advice........
 With Aesthetix Atlas or when changing from any amp make sure you reset the XLR high Pass Dip Switches to corresponding input impedance adjust all back to open and then set dip 3 / 5 closed for Aesthetix's proper 100 HZ x over setting.
 Best JR

@audioconnection 
I thought with the Atlas's built-in HPF I don't need the Vandy external HPF any more?
I also hope there is a section in the Atlas manual for setting the HPF for Vandees.

HP units are worth keeping they will sound just a bit cleaner then built ins
If you Just use the Vandersteen XLR Battery Bias HP filters switched to 3/5 into the top Atlas XLR inputs you may not need anything else anymore.
 Best JohnnyR

@audioconnection 
As a matter of fact I was planning to use the DAC straight into the amp.  My HPFs are RCA, rest of the setup is balanced, wanted to put them away. No point in buying another set of HPFs.

(((I also hope there is a section in the Atlas manual for setting the HPF for Vandees)))

 When hooking up the Atlas both channels are a mirror image of each other.
Speaker binding posts Positive and Negative are in reversed positions on the back of amp look closely at what you are doing with + - and you will be fine.
As for the interconnects if you are going to use the Atlas internal High Pass install your interconnects to the lower available inputs, keeping the amp in mute touching the right side of the black rectangle display window located on front center of amp allows selecting on proper inputs chose accordingly input 2 either SE for RCA or input 2 Bal XLR and then Set Crossover to 100 by adjusting display window and lock and your set.
 Best JohnnyR