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New amp for Vandersteen 2CE

Hoping you can help me narrow down my choices for a new amp for my Vandersteen 2CE speakers.  I have been using a pair of Adcom GFA565 monoblocks.  They have ridiculous amounts of power, but I don't come anywhere near using it all and I would like a little more clarity in the midrange.  I have two used amps I'm considering - a McCormack DNA 0.5 and a Pass Labs Aleph 5.  Another option would be a fully restored/upgraded Adcom 535/545/555.  Source is a Sonos Connect with a passive attenuator for volume control.
Thanks for the help!
craig2112
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,675 posts
 
Why buy used?
http://www.odysseyaudio.com/products-khartago-stereo.html
or this
http://www.avahifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=169&Itemid=254
craig2112 OP
8 posts
 
Build quality is better on the McCormack and Pass Labs, but you have a good point on Odyssey.  They are getting good reviews though I have never tried one.
gdnrbob
4,445 posts
 
As a McCormack fan, I would normally say go with McC.
But, as you have the Adcoms, why not upgrade them at MusicalDesign and see if you like them?
I had the Adcom 555 running while my DNA-1 was being upgraded by SMc. When the DNA came back, I was very pleased, but I have to say that old 555 really held its' ground for a 35 year old machine. As you say, the Adcom is kind of rough around the edges, so when I asked Musical Design about the upgrades, he said it gave it more smoothness to the midrange.
For the 555, it was quoted around $300, for the 565, probably a little more. But, that's alot less than the $1800 I paid to upgrade the DNA-1.
You haven't mentioned your interconnects. Those can make a big difference in the midrange, as well.

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