While I'm a great admirer of the Jadis JA80s (having owned them for over 10 years), I think they may be a little warmer than you're looking for. They roll the highs noticeably, so they will not be as detailed as the CAT. Their other weakness, in the deepest bass (they can be slow and overly ripe down there, though I think they are very good from the midbass up), is not a problem with you because the Vandys handle the bass on their own. I find the Jadis midrange to be among the best out there, and it is a very natural, as opposed to electronic, sounding amplifier. I would say that it probably favors classical and jazz over rock, as it will not sound as crisp on some transients (drums, guitars) as other amps I've heard. It is, however, one of the few amps around that does let you forget the equipment and listen to the music.
Can't comment on the JL-2. I heard an earlier version of the JL-1 and found it perhaps just a little lean for my taste, but otherwise a superb amp. My understanding is that the more recent versions of the CAT amps are better than the ones I heard. You really need to hear it, but I am certain it will be impressive, just don't know if it has the warmth you say you're looking for. The other amp I'd suggest you listen to and consider in your price range, if you can hear it, would be a used Lamm ML-1 or 1.1, which is what has replaced the Jadis in my system. It has the great midrange of the Jadis but a lot more upper frequency extension (but still a little on the warm side) and better dynamic performance and apparent "speed" than the Jadis, while still retaining the naturalness I so liked about the Jadis.
All of these amps are thoroughbreds and refined, though each has a character that will make it distinctive. I think when you hear them all on revealing speakers you'll have a good idea which one best suits your taste; I'd think the Vandys will accurately convey that character. Remember, of course, to factor out the bass performance because of the Vandys' powered woofers.
Can't comment on the JL-2. I heard an earlier version of the JL-1 and found it perhaps just a little lean for my taste, but otherwise a superb amp. My understanding is that the more recent versions of the CAT amps are better than the ones I heard. You really need to hear it, but I am certain it will be impressive, just don't know if it has the warmth you say you're looking for. The other amp I'd suggest you listen to and consider in your price range, if you can hear it, would be a used Lamm ML-1 or 1.1, which is what has replaced the Jadis in my system. It has the great midrange of the Jadis but a lot more upper frequency extension (but still a little on the warm side) and better dynamic performance and apparent "speed" than the Jadis, while still retaining the naturalness I so liked about the Jadis.
All of these amps are thoroughbreds and refined, though each has a character that will make it distinctive. I think when you hear them all on revealing speakers you'll have a good idea which one best suits your taste; I'd think the Vandys will accurately convey that character. Remember, of course, to factor out the bass performance because of the Vandys' powered woofers.