Mid-Fi Amp/Preamp for Martin Logans


I currently own a Yamaha RXV-995 Natural Sound A/V Receiver and am considering selling it and purchasing separates. I really could use suggestions on a mid-fi amp & preamp (either new or used) combination for Martin Logan Aerius i speakers or Martin Logan Ascents. Primary uses: 50% home theatre, 50% 2-channel audio. Primary music played: Brit Pop; Jazz; Blues; Classic Rock; female vocals. I may have to settle for the Aerius i because of budgetary issues. I originally had planned to upgrade to PSB Stratus Goldi but recently auditioned the MLs and was blown away with the sound of the electrostats.

Your help would be appreciated. Thanks!
mcrheist
I had ML Aerius, and would advise using at least a tubed amp, fussy as they can be. Not sure what your definition of "mid-fi" is... the ML's are not mid-fi. Try a VTL Stereo 80 or similar amp which provides at least 40 watts/channel.
For pre, you can go solid state; I used an audio research LS-3 with great results. Also used a tube preamp, a Counterpoint 3000--very dimensional with the Aerius...
Enjoy. -Ed
If your definition of "mid-fi" means cost below,say, $2000 for H/T separates, consider Sherwood Newcastle 9080 series (although the new 9090AVP pre will be out this fall).I'm using the 9080 with Magnepans all around with good results and I'm familiar with Martin Logan equipment.
If it would fit your budget, I would recommend an Innersound ESL amplifier for Martin-Logans, or any electrostatic speaker. It is made specifically for the capacitive load of an ESL, and drives them with ease, providing control and great dynamics, with no distortion. It is rated at 300 watts/channel into 8 ohms, and 600 into 4 ohms, with lots of current. This is an amp that will drive the M-L's to their full potential, and once you nail down this synergistic amp/speaker combination, it will allow you to really hear what the front end components are contributing, and make your choices there easier. Current Audiogon price is around $1700 for this amp. I personally would recommend a tube preamp for the dynamics and realism that it can provide. Possibly a pre-owned B.A.T. VK-3i, or a Sonic Frontiers SL-1 would work for you; I think they both have a H-T "pass through" feature, making them suitable for dual use.
My budget is $2k/total or less for the amp/preamp. I am trying to avoid the upper cost of the equipment spectrum (i.e., Mark Levinson or Red Rose). By no means, was I implying that the MartinLogans were mid-fi.