Upscaling Speakers, Downscaling Amp...What to Do?


A few months back, I purchased a pair of Joseph Audio Pulsars. I've enjoyed them so much that I've decided to upgrade to the new Perspectives. However, my better half hath decreed that no more money can go into audio, so I've made the extremely difficult decision to sell my amp (VAC Phi Beta 110i) in the near future. Its replacements will obviously be significantly less expensive, yet they must provide a similar listening experience. The preamp is already fixed - a Modwright LS 100 with phono stage. My question for the board is, what amp? Tube or solid state? Cost (used) needs to be around $3000-3500, and a minimum of 100 wpc. The obvious pairing is either the Modwright KWA 150 or KWA 100SE. I would welcome any another other suggestions, but if you do so, please tell me why. Thanks in advance.
curriemt11
I couldn't hear a difference between these 'high end' hi-fi amps and my sub lo-fi Harman Kardon if my life depended on it. I am truly blessed. Don't forget, stress kills.
As has already been pretty well-stated, the main reason you like your speakers is because of what it DRIVING THEM. Based upon your responses above, I'm not so sure you realize this. Getting rid of your VAC will probably be a much worse move than you currently think it will be. I'd sell or trade something else to do the speaker upgrade you are seeking. Pretty simple and win/win instead of lose/win. :-)
Fplanner2010
Your point seems so obvious to many following this thread.I realize ultimately people do what they want to do and that`s fine.
Oh dear, we're going to keep on with this, are we? Well guys, I'm one of those who believes that transducers have significantly more effect on what you're experiencing than do electronics. It's an opinion, obviously, just as you have your own. And it's based on 35 years of listening experience, and owning some of the finest gear made (e.g. Ayre MX-R, SoundLabs, the Messenger preamp, the VAC, and so on).

I won't waste any further time on responding to such comments or suggestions, since they were not the subject of this thread. If anyone has something relevant to add - within the context of the original question - please feel free.