what speaker new or used for 5k?

Mapman, I can try different amp and pre amps from local stereo store for free. The dealer is trying to figure out a way(s) to work around the a21 with a better speaker match or change out the a21 and p5 to match the VA's. I'm thinking a floor model amp and pre might be cheaper then speakers because of the resale value of the PARASOUND gear.

I'm trying to figure out what you mean by "congested". Is it that the sound is not analytical enough, or does it seem as if the speakers are overloading, i.e. that they can't handle passages of loud and/or complex music? Or??

The VA Beethoven Baby Grands are my second-favorite speaker, and I've heard them handle Mahler with aplomb. Haven't heard the Mozarts, but I wouldn't expect them not to be up to the job.

To track down the problem you need to do a good deal of experimentation, with placement, amplification, and possibly speakers, swopping in and out components. This is a lot of work! If it finally comes down to speakers, and you still don't like the Mozarts, wondering if you'd be happier with something like Vandersteen, PSB or Focal.

like I said congested sounding almost like when your nose is plugged. I don't know if I switched to the grand Beethoven's if it would be the same or better? because the PARASOUND gear might not be a good match for the VA's in general. I hate the thought of getting rid of the PARASOUND gear but it does go for a good resale value and the Mozarts not so much. luckily I do have a high end stereo store 30 miles away who will sell and trade equipment and will let me try out various things for free and make suggestions. Vandersteen, aerial and Paradigms new prestige line has been mentioned by local dealer.

If you can get a home trial, I recommend you try a set of Nordost Sort Kones under your speakers.

If congestion is the problem you might like the coherent sound of Vandersteen, but be aware that they are said to be very sensitive to what you feed them, so a change like taht alone would not necessarily signify the of teh changes needed.

It does take time patience and money to try different things until you find just the right one that clicks for you.