What is a good amp to pair with Hovland HP-100

I have the Hovland, and am enjoying it with VTL MB-450 monoblocks. Here is some information from a Stereophile review what may be useful regarding impedence matching:

"The Hovland’s line stage didn’t invert absolute polarity. Its input impedance was a usefully high 100kohms in the midrange and bass, with just a small reduction to a still-high 86kohms at 20kHz. Despite the claim that the HP-100 uses a cathode follower output stage, its source impedance was high at 2.4k ohms, rising to 4.3k ohms at 20Hz. The partnering power amplifier would best have an input impedance of at least 47k ohms if the bass is not to sound lean."

Also, if you are buying used, you may want to be aware that some of the volume controls used in original building are starting to ware out, and replacement costs a bit of $$. You should definitely inquire as to whether there are any abnormalities to the volume control. Mine was fine. I just sent it to Hovland, they checked it out - they did do a power supply upgrade that made some subtle, positive improvements.

Alex at Hovland is one of the nicest guys you're going to meet in Audio, and he will work with you for whatever support you need. You can call him with a serial number, and get the lowdown on a preamp you are considering.

Best, Peter

PS Rickk - I think you're working in reverse order here. I think you should decide what speakers you like, then what amp works best with them, and finally choose the preamp. The preamp makes a huge difference, but I wouldn't recommend locking yourself in to a preamp/amp synergy until you've chosen your speakers.

Good luck! All the Best, Peter

Agree with Peter_s - not all preamps work well with all amps and you would not want to lock yourself into a preamp-amp combination by choice of the preamp.

I would ask the question: What good amp to pair with the 2CE ad then find a matching preamp....

Thanks for your responses! You make an excellent point. I was motivated to start with the Hovland also in part because I've been offered one at well below the going used rate. However, I was unaware of this situation with the volume control. It seems you've left me with two good reasons to reconsider. In any case, I will be replacing the Vandersteens as well and I'm fond of a pair of floor standing Proac I heard recently. I guess I'll see what threads we have regarding good amps to mate with Proac.

Regards,

Rickk