"I agree sfall, but why does it have to be your Vandersteen Model 1's?"
They're not mine. I own different models. However, one of the main reasons I recommend Vandersteen, is that they are so transparent. You can make them sound however you like, so its easier to recover from a mistake. For someone that doesn't have a lot of experiance, this is critical. Too many people walk away from high end audio in frustration. If they at least get some of the system right, there's a much better chance they won't give up.
"Also, the OP said he is thinking about putting off the amp purchase and may concentrate on new speakers instead.
But to emphatically say...
Keep your electronics for now and just upgrade your speakers to a pair of Vandersteen Model 1's.
Leaves very little room to audition anything else."
That was my advice. I have no control over what the OP demos. The reality is, most people that visit this site, don't demo products before they but them, regardless of what they say.
"I am sure the Vandersteens are very nice speakers, but that doesn't mean
they are the right speakers for the OP. He should audition as he can."
I agree, but looking at the other options presented, I wanted to imply there was no doubt I was telling him to do the right thing. Also, if a mistake was made somewhere, its fixable with a speaker like the Model 1's. Try and fix a system based on B&W's, Magnepan's, or any of the other countless train wreck designs on the market. It was a judgement call on my part meant to make the OP pause and consider other paths. Do you really see him running down to his local Vandersteen dealer and buy speakers without first consulting the forum? Its not likely. Besides, the OP asked for our input in no uncertain terms.
"Curious if anyone has input, suggestions, or, considering those three upgrade paths, if I should abandon this track."
