Hi Chrysos,
It appears that we have extremely similar systems: similar age, similar layout (I have one open wall connecting to kitchen nook and kitchen), and similar usage (I also stream wired & with AirPlay). I have been contemplating upgrading my front speakers due to their age and a little to much love from one of our pets. I was very pleased when I saw this thread and with the advice given. In reading the thread, it looks like I should at some point consider upgrading my center to the VCC5; however, my current progression is most likely to upgrade LFE to V2W, add a 2wq, replace 2Ce's with 2Ce Sig II or Treo.
The one tidbit that I can add as far as amplifiers goes is that when I was using a VCC-1 as a center channel, and I was switching components around for cleaning, I switched out an Outlaw Audio M200 amp for one of the channels in a Bryston 3B-ST. I was completely surprised how much more open and clear the VCC-1 was. Within a month or two I purchased a Bryston PP250 for the center channel and sold the M200.
I am interested if you were able to explore any of the suggested amplifiers (Ayre, ARC, CJ, Quicksilver, Rogue, etc) and if you found any significantly more satisfying than your Rotel.
I am even more interested if you ultimately upgraded your 2Ce's, stuck with Vandersteen's, and your experience with the new speakers.
My system
Pre-Amp: Marantz AV7701
Amps: Bryston 4B-ST, 5B-ST, PP250
Front Speakers: Vandersteen 2Ce, purchased new in 1993 (one year earlier than yours)
Center Channel: Vandersteen VCC-2
Rear Speakers: Vandersteen VSM-1
Rear Center Speaker: Vandersteen VCC-1
Subwoofer: Outlaw Audio LFM-1 and considering upgrading to Vandersteen V2W
TV: Samsung LCD 60 inch
Universal Player: OPPO BDP-93 connected via HDMI
Streaming: Stored FLAC from Windows PC running MinimServer to Marantz
Thanks for starting this thread and the replies you and others have made.
It appears that we have extremely similar systems: similar age, similar layout (I have one open wall connecting to kitchen nook and kitchen), and similar usage (I also stream wired & with AirPlay). I have been contemplating upgrading my front speakers due to their age and a little to much love from one of our pets. I was very pleased when I saw this thread and with the advice given. In reading the thread, it looks like I should at some point consider upgrading my center to the VCC5; however, my current progression is most likely to upgrade LFE to V2W, add a 2wq, replace 2Ce's with 2Ce Sig II or Treo.
The one tidbit that I can add as far as amplifiers goes is that when I was using a VCC-1 as a center channel, and I was switching components around for cleaning, I switched out an Outlaw Audio M200 amp for one of the channels in a Bryston 3B-ST. I was completely surprised how much more open and clear the VCC-1 was. Within a month or two I purchased a Bryston PP250 for the center channel and sold the M200.
I am interested if you were able to explore any of the suggested amplifiers (Ayre, ARC, CJ, Quicksilver, Rogue, etc) and if you found any significantly more satisfying than your Rotel.
I am even more interested if you ultimately upgraded your 2Ce's, stuck with Vandersteen's, and your experience with the new speakers.
My system
Pre-Amp: Marantz AV7701
Amps: Bryston 4B-ST, 5B-ST, PP250
Front Speakers: Vandersteen 2Ce, purchased new in 1993 (one year earlier than yours)
Center Channel: Vandersteen VCC-2
Rear Speakers: Vandersteen VSM-1
Rear Center Speaker: Vandersteen VCC-1
Subwoofer: Outlaw Audio LFM-1 and considering upgrading to Vandersteen V2W
TV: Samsung LCD 60 inch
Universal Player: OPPO BDP-93 connected via HDMI
Streaming: Stored FLAC from Windows PC running MinimServer to Marantz
Thanks for starting this thread and the replies you and others have made.