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vandersteen 2ce signatures

i own a pair and i am using cary cd, preamp, amp. and love the mids and highs since i listen to jazz, both traditional and fusion. they remind me of the old quads in that they don't add anything, although i believe they are a bit dry...but rather have that than extra with certain freq. hot, so in saying that...i was dissapointed because with the tubes i wasn't getting the bottom end strength that i know is needed. so i added a sub q and i like it because it does give more of the power amp to the mids and highs, but i was thinking about changing to a real good solid state amp..say bryston,etc. but scared i will loose the liquid mids and highs from the tubed amp...any suggestions? thanks
dwhitt
mikej
172 posts
 
Hi, there have been several threads on this. I suggest you look them up for more details. However, in brief the two best amps I've used with Vandersteens (personally) have been the Quicksilver V4 Mono blocks and the BEL 1001 Mk V amps. The V4s are more tubey and will have that bloom you can only get from tubes. The BEL Mk V is in another class entirely with more detail, neutrality and musicality. Since they're about the same price new I'd get the BEL hands down. However, if you can't live without tubes, the V4s will not dissappoint.
Good luck!
gene888
8 posts
 
I would audition the Conrad-Johnson MF2500A. Paired with their PV14L tube pre-amp, the C-J has a nice laid-back sound with good dynamics and detail.
ecruz
402 posts
 
A second vote for McCormack. I'm using a DNA 0.5 with my 2ce's.
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