Speakers after GMA Europas

Rrog, Thiel recommends 50-250 Watts for the 3.5's, with the possibility that in some circumstances 25 or 300 Watts might be appropriate (8 Ohm load rating assuming ss w/ the ability to double down). Remember these Thiels don't drop below 4 Ohms. Vandersteen recommends 40-160 Watts (8 Ohm rating). Your point is well taken, the minimum recommendations will not play these speakers to their full potential, and are probably only suited for small rooms without big SPL expectations. Again the used cost of these speakers allows for the expense of more powerful amplification as might be needed.
Unlike the Thiels and Vandersteens there is no available support for the Meadowlarks, or for that matter Dunlavy's (which at this price point would only include models with less bass capability and yet more physical size).

I agree that some more info is needed about the OP's room, as well as his priorities when it comes to sound. I'm with Shakeydeal - while the Vandys are great speakers for the money, I think they're outclassed by GMAs. In my experience, the first-order crossover of a GMA is of a much higher quality than the crossover in the Vandersteen 2s - the dynamics and detail are on a different level. If that's what the OP liked about the Europas, maybe he needs to stick with his original brand. In my experience, the GMA trebles also outclass the Thiels and Meadowlarks, as good as those latter brands are.

Dunlavy Audio Laboratories SC-IV Loudspeaker Specifications

Power Handling: Peak 250W for 10ms, average (pink noise) 25W. Recommended amplifier power: minimum 100W into 8 ohms. Recommended listening distance 8'-25'.

I used to own Vandie 2 sig and had 3 sig in my room for two weeks. The Callistos are better as far as resolution, imaging, dynamics and soundstaging. Like shakydeal said almost like a balnket was over the Vandies compared to the Callistos. Everything sounds listenable and creamy over the Vandies though..if you have lesser electronics that is the way to go...
Heard the Europas at a friends house, almost the same as the Callisto for less $$

Hard to argue with the above suggestions...and yes the Vandys are not a "shock and awe" speaker...but they dont need a sub...and they do grow on you...especially if you enjoy vinyl....hard to find a truly full range speaker that does very little wrong...happy xmas