best amp for Martin logan sl-3

I have to think you are on the right track in considering one of the Audio Research VT100 iterations. I am getting by fairly nicely with a McCormack DNA .5 Deluxe, but I have a fairly small room. I am considering moving to a VT100. Keep in mind that room size is a major factor in determining how much power you will need.

I was running my CLS's with a DNA1 Deluxe, it did well up to a point. All big balls tubes amps that I tried were superior to the McCormack and several other, higher powered solid state amps. Give some big ball tube amps a try... Wolcotts, SF Power 3's and the like. They all are a little different but all will really open up your Logans. Don't get me wrong, there are some good solid state amps mentioned here (some mediocre amps, too) and they will sound good, but good high powered tube amps will take you to another place. Compare both types in your system. To answer your question, the ARC VT 100 will drive your speakers with no problem (tried a VT100MkII with my speakers, no problem). This amp was good, although not my choice. Some good deals on Wolcott's, Sonic Frontiers and used VT100 MkII's right now.

Forgot the second part of your question... I have heard (from their owners) that Innersound amps are excellent with esl's. They were specifically designed for Innersound esl speakers. The low down is that these beasts NEVER run out of headroom no matter what load you're driving and are surprisingly musical, too. Your SL3's are not terribly demanding (not like the big mofo SoundLabs, for example) but you may want to check the Innersound out anyway. Supposed to be a very good amp -- never heard anything but good stuff from guys who own these.

I would try Marsh A400S, Bryston 4BST and 7BST, Rowland 10, 110 and 112 (depending on budget), Simaudio Moon W5, skip Plinius (in my humble opinion the 250 is too burdensome and user unfriendly) or in tubes try the ARC VT100 MKII, and the Wolcotts. But I suspect the Marsh will do an unbelievable job and will be all you need.

Many thanks to all who responded. After I posted my request I talked to two different Martin Logan dealers. Both sold Audio Research as well. One said the VT100MKII or III would be fine, the other said not enough power. I have decided to give the innersound amp a try. They have a 30 day money-back program so outside of shipping its risk free. I'll let you know how it goes. Thanks for all of the advice and best wishes for the holidays.