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Vandersteen 5 - Best amp and pre/pro under $3k ?

Hello

I have been reading the discussions here on Audiogon and am amazed at how knowledgable everyone is. This is my first thread and hopefully some of you can shed some light on this for me.

I am finally upgrading from my 2c's that I've had (and loved)for 23 years now, and getting a pair of 5's. I am stoked! However, I need some help choosing an amp and pre/pro that will do the 5's justice but not bust my budget. I split listening to 2 channel stereo and surround HT movies about 50/50.

I have been scouring the posts here for wisdom but realized starting my own thread might be easier. Any help you all can provide would be greatly appreciated!
ahslaw57
goblue711
30 posts
 
A used integrated like Pass INT-150 would maximize your value, though you may have to stretch a few hundred bucks.
daverz
487 posts
 
I'd also suggest an integrated with at least 100 Watts. At this price level you'll get the most bang for your buck. Perhaps something like a Musical Fidelity integrated.
doug99
288 posts
 
Emotiva XPA-1
These are mono block amps new for 2000 dollars.
There built like tanks and sound great.

For a straight preamp, the Emotiva the RSP-2 Preamp is the one.
Its made in China and thats why the cost is low. Its 700 new.
You can read the review on here of the Emotiva stereo amp and the RSP-2 Preamp
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1234483217

For the Mono block amps, here's 2 reviews.
http://www.audioreview.com/cat/amplification/amplifiers/emotiva/xpa-1-monoural-power-amplifiers/PRD_429864_1583crx.aspx
rleff
1,065 posts
 
Do you want to try tubes for pre-amp or amplification?
ahslaw57 OP
1 posts
 
Thanks for the responses everyone. I will follow up. As to Rleff's question, can I run HT thru tubes? What are the pros and cons of tube? I've only used them in guitar amps, but I am open to it. Thanks
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