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. :-)
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.