2. amps-preamps
  3. 150848-110897

Recommendations for a new integrated amp for Vandersteen 3a speakers

I acquired some Vandersteen 3a speakers a few months back to replace my Theil CS1s and would like to update my system to accommodate them. The recommended power range from the mfg is 100-200 wpc.
I have been using my old Adcom GFP-555II preamp and NAD 2100 amp and would like to upgrade with a new or used integrated amp to replace them. I have been considering:
Wyred 4 Sound sti-1000 or sti-500
Musical Fidelity M6i
Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum or Pharaoh
Odyssey Stratos (keep the preamp)
Vincent Audio SV-237
Unison Unico
Peachtree Nova 220 se
My budget is $1500 for this upgrade. 
Please help me narrow the list or add some other options to consider to upgrade the system!

 


jplunkettj
bigkidz
3,387 posts
 
I agree with gdnrbob - I met him at Audio Connection and listened with him.  The belles was very good.  I would contact Johnny R there and ask him as he plays with these thins all day.
insearchofprat
189 posts
 
... thinking outside the box because of my experience: Your origional list is amazing and all are possible BUT I'D RECOMMEND you purchase a VINTAGE MCINTOSH MA-2105 Power Amp: can run direct,without a preamp, has adequate power (105w/c), dual volume controls, dual meters/kool blue glow, and it is a piece of audio history (McIntosh's first SS amp). Made a bad judgement in selling the one I had - saving up for another (others have realized how good this piece is - going for almost double what I sold mine for 10 years ago...) ... 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,913 posts
 
I ran 3a Sig for years with McIntosh MC202
rarely rarely pushes that amp
agree chat w Johnny
my list would include Quicksilver
VTL an older but upgraded ARC SS amp in addition to brands mentioned above
wlutke
727 posts
 
jplunkettj,
If you really do have the 3A and not the 3A signature then I suggest selling them and use the money towards the Sig. It would be a bigger improvement than a new amp. I used Ayre V-5xe with mine. Good combo.
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
I also agree that the Belles Aria integrated would be a great choice, probably the best one. IMO.
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