VTL MB450 monos Vs. BAT VK 60se monos?

You won't be getting a dark sound with the VK Se version amps, they are anything but that. Depending on your Accuphase you may just be making a sideways move, especially if you are giving up power to go to the VK60se.

I have the 1027's. Under show conditions I have heard the 1027's with Pathos amps. The combo was fantastic. The top of the line models but I am pretty sure that the "lower" models would also sound great. If I were going for tubes, they would be on my very short list.
I have heard the 927be's(my old speakers) with BAT gear. That sounded very nice as well. It may be characterized as a "fat" sound. I was looking for a sub in the room. But for me personally, I would need to really consider the Pathos. It was that good.

Hello Len,

"Does a ton of power make difference with speakers that don't really require it? ..."

read very interesting writing exactly on the topic in EnjoyTheMusic.com:

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/manufacture/0708/index.html

All The Best
Rafael

Personally I would stay away from tube power amps. For reasons mentioned earlier. The pre amp you have is really good, can only dream of that kind of gear. If I were you I would buy some (maybe class A) SS mono amps. Place those amps close to your speakers and run long balanced interconnects and short speaker cables. Also I believe power amp will have less of an impact on the way your system sounds the the pre amp.

The VTLs are really nice, but you'd better be prepared to crank up your AC in the summer time. It will be similiar to running your AC and furnace at the same time.

As another poster noted, you should give the JC-1s a listen or include them in the listening sessions you do.
They are a super amp, and will drive just about any speaker load. Running out of power should not be a problem with them.