Amp/Pre-amp for Vandersteens

Vandersteens are at their best with GOOD tubes. If you move up I'd stay with tubes. I'd suggest the ARC VT 100 Amp. Carey

Thanks guys. I am going to go with the DNA 0.5 DLX (think I have a deal here on Audiogon). I will report back and then probably hold off on the preamp for a while.

I have had my vandersteen 3aSigs hooked up to tube amps and solid state. I think they are actually pretty good with solid state. Usually I prefer tubes by a mile, but not so with the vandersteens. It's about 50-50. Better midrange, but inferior bass with the tubes. Vandersteens are the most forgiving high end speaker I have ever heard.

I think you're making a good move with the McCormack. When you're ready for the pre-amp, the Audible Illusions Modulus 3A is one to consider. It has a very well respected phono stage. I've been using one with a DNA-1 Deluxe (waiting for it to return any day now from it's upgrade) and have been very happy. I'm using Thiel CS3.6's and I've been told they have a lot in common with the Vandersteen's.

keep your SP9 and get an audio research amp like a VT50 and a Vandersteen 2wq subwoofer. You won't need much power when you use the sub and it makes my 2ce's sing! I have a set up like this and I love it!