VTL / Pass / Lamm

Hi Folks. This is my first post and thanks for reading.

To give you a sense of my tastes, it shocks me how 99% of the population puts up with cheap gear that measures well and sounds like crap.

In comparison, my Marantz model 8 tube amp (which to this day is the greatest amplification device I have ever heard) may stink in it's measurements, but blow the lid off 99% of everything else out there in musicality.

At this point I am making final decisions on building a new reference system. Almost all of it will be used. Can't use the Marantz with my reference speakers due to power and my desire for more accuracy. Taking into account the law of diminishing returns and my budget compromises, system synergy must be done carefully. I like a very detailed yet musical, non fatiguing sound. Both on vinyl and CD.

The closest I have come in today's technology to approach the Marantz experience has been VTL, Manley and Pass. I have not yet heard LAMM but look forward to doing so. Your views on his gear are welcome even though I may never afford it.

My benchmark listening experince has been the Conrad Johnson Premier 17LS into a VTL ST150 into Thiel 2.3 speakers. Theil is my reference.

The ST150 knocked my socks off. Effortless music and energy. The Manley 250 monoblocks did the same although I thought that VTL was slightly less warm, however it could have been the room and the speakers used. I just wish that the high powered tube gear could be pure class A and not AB. VAC is, but the price is very high, let alone the other units mentioned here.

Have any of you ever combined a CJ Pre-amp with a Pass X design? Any problems with impedence?! Do the designs cancel each other out or work well? Is it the best of both worlds that one might seek?

How would you compare the sound of the X series to a pair of VTL MB450's or 225's?

Would a combination of CJ with an older Pass Aleph design be too lush? I may love tubes but an extreme euphonic system is not the goal here at all.

If the 17LS is my first choice for a preamp, what other amp's, that I may yet to hear, would be a great combination for my desired sound?

I look forward to your views.

D.H.