What preamp & power amp to buy?

sometimes I wonder why I don't just the matching Herron M1s to go with the VTSP 3a. I like trying different amps, but I am curious on how the matching separates from Herron sound. Thats more power cords and IC's though. I don't have the funds at the moment, but maybe in the future. So Wig, have you heard the combo?

You should include Pass Labs Class A monoblocks (XA .5 series) and their pre-amp in your evaluation too. Good luck...nothing more fun than buying new gear.

There may be an even newer Rowland amp then M625 coming our way. Last I heard it may be a bridgeable version of M625 with a different model number ... operable both in stereo and mono configuration. Probably same chassis as M625. I have no hard information on pricing, technical specifications or performance... so I'll spare you my wilding speculations on the subject. I'll post when I get some hard info. G.

cost is no object;I would look at atmasphere ma3's with atmasphere's matching higher end pre amp;that is if cost is no real concern.

Are these recommendations Lamm, Pass, Rowland, AS ... based on personal experience driving Rockport Ankaa or just the components in the Stereophile recommended Class A+++++?