2. amps-preamps
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Best sounding "budget" integrated amp for Vandersteen 2C.

Looking for the best sounding "budget" integrated amp for use with an Vandersteen 2C (1980’s version) speakers. CD source alternates between a Sony PS1 and Cal Audio Icon II Power Boss. Budget is roughly $300, maybe up to $400. I’ve been thinking something from NAD, but with all the different models out there, I have no idea which models are the best sounding--regardless of power. It will also need to have a phono stage. I’d like to have a remote too, but it’s not a deal breaker. My system is in a second bedroom, so even though I like to crank every once in a while, most of the time I'm listening at reasonable levels. My listening tastes consists of stuff like Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Tangerine Dream, etc.
jsbach1685
mn2bttb
25 posts
 
owned the VAND 2c for many years.  the bad news first.  it requires POWER with a good damping factor from the amp.  It is rather inefficient.  around 86-87db.
it CANNOT produce low bass, so if you want that,  choke it at around 50-60hz and use a decent sub.
helomech
1,702 posts
 

In my original post, I indicated NAD. But, I had been thinking about the Yamaha A-S models as well... 301, 500, 501, etc. I’m glad there were a lot of responses on those Yammy models, as I was curious as to what they really sounded like--compared to NAD, Rotel, as well as the British integrateds from Creek, Arcam and Rega.

Fun fact: the Yamaha integrateds were voiced in Britain.


erik_squires
16,159 posts
 
Did I already recommend an Arcam? I really really like the sound of those integrateds. 
jsbach1685 OP
145 posts
 
Other than the addition of a DAC, are there any SONIC differences between the Yamaha A-S501 and A-S500? 
helomech
1,702 posts
 
Other than the addition of a DAC, are there any SONIC differences between the Yamaha A-S501 and A-S500?
Nope, they have the same exact amp section. 
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