BAT, ARC, VAC, Shindo?


Current system is VAC Avatar Super (80W KT88) driving Devore Silverbacks in a combo 2 channel HT rig. Sounds great with good bass and soundstage. In the never ending quest for improvement and I am wondering about seperates or another integrated. I've been researching Shindo (no remote or pass thru), ARC LS26/VS55, BAT pre?/VK55SE, or VAC Phi Beta Integrated. Anything else to consider in this league?
maineiac
Thanks for your responses.

TVAD - you may be right as I do really like the VAC integrated now. I have no idea why I'm looking - some sort of genetic issue I guess.

WRP - my main concern with the Shindo besides the remote is having enough power, it looks like you are in the sweet spot w 40W but it has been suggested that I would be fine with 25W.

Lokie - My listening room is pretty small, 25X17 and I listen to almost everything except classical (sometimes but not often)and I like to push the SPL. Think of that awesome kick drum on Smashing Pumpkins' Zero.
Do you have a sub? A good sub might be fun to try. You could take a little load off the VAC and give it a little more headroom for those high spl nights.
Maineiac

My previous amp was the 10W/Ch Shindo Cortese which had no problem driving the Silverbacks in a 25X15 space opening to the kitchen and a hallway. I have the attenuators on the Sinhonias set at 12 O'clock (1/2 power) and have no issues with SPL for 2 channel or HT.

If you're concerned about power, I suggest taking a look at Shindo's new high power (80W) Corton-Charlemagne mono amps. Lashing the Cortons to your 90db efficient Silverbacks should cure any SPL worries ;-)

Best,
Wayne
Wrp

What's the price on the Corton-Charlamagne's? From the name I would guess the price of an old Porche. I think I remember reading somewhere that DeVore said his favorite Shindo amp was the Cortese.
Lokie, I do have a sub for HT but there is no need for it as far as 2 channel goes - The silverbacks and the VAC can gut it out without a problem on the SPL. I am more concerned dropping from 80W down to 25W if there will still be enough drive. Everyone I talk to tells me that that will not be an issue.