I have Vandies 2C powered with Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum 100 watts and it has KT120 power tubes The combo has a great sound stage more holographic then a solid state integrated I tried the Ayre AX7 a more detailed sound but a flatter sound stage not enough power at 45watts for the 2Cs
You can check out my system on this site
Audio Connection carries Rogue Audio too
Best integrated from this list...
Below is a list of what I am considering. My source is a Naim CD3.5 and speakers are Vandersteen 2c. Cabling is DH Labs Q-10 speaker and Air Matrix interconnects. My system is an a second bedroom that is 12x14, with a non-slopped 5x5 dormer section. The Vandys sound great in that room and I have them placed according to the owner's manual. The Vandys have a more laid back sound and the CD3.5 blends well with them as it is on the fuller side, yet still has deep, punchy bass and crisp airy highs. I guess to keep the synergy, I'm looking for an integrated on the neutral side--especially in the mids. A swing either way will throw-off the balance I assume. I definitely want an integrated with extended bass response and detail, yet still have punch/slam. Considering the room size, I can operate anything within the 50-100wpc range. Another option is to go separates. A local audio buddy of mine has a McIntosh MC-502 for sale that I could run the CD3.5 direct as it has L & R volume controls on the front. This would only be until I could get a preamp.
1. Creek "Classic" 5350SE
2. Classe CAP-101
3. Musical Fidelity M3si
4. Arcam A19, A85, or equivalent/better.
5. Simaudio Moon i1/250i
6. McIntosh MC-502 (CD3.5 direct until preamp)
7. Other possibilities???
1. Creek "Classic" 5350SE
2. Classe CAP-101
3. Musical Fidelity M3si
4. Arcam A19, A85, or equivalent/better.
5. Simaudio Moon i1/250i
6. McIntosh MC-502 (CD3.5 direct until preamp)
7. Other possibilities???
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- 31 posts total
I look forward to reading the responses, jsbach1685. I have Vandy 2CEs (old, want new Signatures) and my listening room is about the size of yours. It's our new house, and I was worried they would overwhelm the room but they sound great! I am running a McCormack DNA-1 amp (170 wpc, iirc) and a passive line stage. I have thought about going integrated, and with more gain I don't need all the power the McCormack has. |
- 31 posts total