I understand this is an old thread, but it is right in the middle of what I am considering.
I have an old Vandersteen 2W (over 25 years in my system) with a pair of Acoustat 1+1's. I replaced my NAD 7600 with a Nakamichi PA 7Aii power amp and an NAD C165BEE pre-amp. The bass disappeared. Had to do with the capacitance of the amps.
I just completed an A/B comparison of my 2W with the Sub 3 at my primary audio dealer. I thought the 2W was a goner, but with a 2WX test crossover it is fine. Comparing the 2W with the Sub 3 (both matched with the Vandersteen Treo's) was enlightening. I really liked the Sub 3, but I was not blown away by it. We used the high end crossover system Vandersteen promotes so it was apples to apples.
While I was not blown away with the Sub 3 I am considering upgrading to it. The room was fuller (same gain as measured by my personal SPL meter) with it and the analog EQ easily corrected for room frequency nodes. However, if I do upgrade I will probably stick with the X2 crossovers rather the M5 or M7 crossover (essentially doubles the cost or more of the Sub 3). I am concerned the performance will slip with the X2's.
I am also considering a pair of Rythmik F12SE or the REL T/9x. I would pair either set with an SPL analog Crossover (from Germany).
Looking for thoughts, observations, or just "are you insane" comments.
Thanks!!