Looking for a new powerful amp.

CJ Premier 350

The new krells are really good, but I think the Classe Omicron or Omega are better. I have owned the Krell FPB 700cx, and the Classe Omicron and the omicron is simply more musical with greater resolution and reserve. JMO

Jon p, its hard to give you the information you are seeking because your question is so general. Do you prefer SS vs. tubes, even though you mentioned Krell, if I got my facts straight if you go the the Vandersteen 5a's they have built-in subwoofer amps, so you might not need as much power as you would with other speakers. You have a great new pre-amp, so I would believe that you have a budget that would allow you to audition many reference level amps to match the performance level and cost of the AR Ref 3. I would recommend that you audition such amps as an Edge NL-10.1, Pass LabsX-350.5, or the Ayre's latest amp. They are all wonderful sounding and might be what you are looking for, but your personnal taste and synergy with your gear, would lead to your decision. I went through a process of auditioning over six different amps and decided on the Pass LabsX-350.5 in my system. Hope this helps.

I have heard the 5as powered with the newer Parasound monoblocks with excellent results. Very neutral and really made the Vandersteens very dynamic.

Thanks for the responses so far...

Teajay, I've been a fan of SS for many years, I currently have a Proceed Hpa-2 in the system that i listed. And i have Levinson 436's in another system with Revel Salons.
That being said, I've come to really appreciate the tube sound. My main concern with the system i've listed is a dynamic powerful amp that will compliment the music i will be listening to. Also, the Vandersteen's are just one choice that was suggested to me. I will be auditioning them next weekend.
If anyone has any other suggestions about Amps or Speakers, please let me know.