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ARC Ref150 or Aesthetix Atlas with Vandersteen 5A

I will be getting a pair of Vandersteen 5A's or 5A Carbons in the coming year. I will be replacing my amplifier first in the very near future. I have an Audio Research Ref 3 preamp. I have a good size collection of classical, jazz and rock on both cd and vinyl. I'm tossed between the two. Any thoughts as to which might pair better?
kleiman421
brf
1,715 posts
 
I would wait and live with the Vand 5A for a while until you develop a feel for what is "lacking" in your current set up.

BTW, great speaker.
rsimms
150 posts
 
I heard the ARC's and the Aesthetix equipment with the Vandersteen 7s at the last RMAF. I thought the ARC's were much better. I haven't heard the carbons, but if they sound anything like the 7's then that would be my only choice.

Bob
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,506 posts
 
Hard to make decisions based on a show as the total system and room impact the sound. The Atlas is a known great match with your speakers and often shown together. The Atlas is a superb sounding amp and you should try one or several amps before deciding.

Can you work with a local dealer? You really need to hear these amps in your system and room. You may also like a different sound presentation vs. another.

I own the Atlas stereo amp and with a good power cord and upgraded NOS tubes, it just sings - very musical amp.
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