2. amps-preamps
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Newbie building modest system ...what amp?

I have a adcom gtp 400, rega rp1 so far with kimber kables for interconnects and speaker cables.

In search of Vandersteen 2ce's.

Looking to spend in the 500-600 range used for a power amp. Then will be on the hunt for a used preamp after that.

Any input would be appreciated.
mswobo
exocet954
98 posts
 
A used Belles 150A Hot Rod amp with a tube preamp into Vandersteens is a classic combination.
unsound
7,315 posts
 
McCormack.
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,940 posts
 
+1 on the Belles 150A Hot Rod. One of my favorite all time amplifiers. Great match with the Vandies.
tbromgard
814 posts
 
McCormack is a great chice with Vandies. However, I too suggest you sell the adcom and get an integrated, or if you can swing it, separates, but IMO the adcom will be the weak link. You dont want your pre amp to be the weak link.
brownsfan
1,508 posts
 
The old McCormacks are great in that price range. I would suggest you consider a good passive volume control, like a Promitheus REF 4 to go with the McCormacks. The unmodified McCormacks have a very high input impedence and play well even with resistor based passives. No issues at all with a transformer volume control like the Promethius. For 1100-1200 I think that combo will get you more than any integrated I know of in that price range. I believe McCormacks also are nice with Vandies.
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