Which amp to drive Avalon Diamonds?

I used to have Lamms M1.2 Ref driving my Eidolons Visions. It was not a good match IMO.

The VAC should be holographic and extremely well-balanced on the Eidolon Diamonds I imagine - and would be my personal first choice by far. Having spent a good bit of time listening with the PHI220s on them I have to imagine the 300.1 would be amazing. I can tell you that the VAC 220s were a better match to my ears than the Boulder amp in almost every way (though that likely depends highly on what type of music you listen to and synergies with associated equipment as well).

For what its worth, a lot of people who have lived with the CAT/Diamond combo speak highly of them but I have not had any extended direct time with the combo (I'm sure they will be chiming in shortly).

Will be curious to hear your selection but congrats on what will likely be an exceptionally musical system!

Glai, very interesting amps of choice indeed. I actually use to own the same Avalons which were set-up in my main designated room. Associated gear was ARC Ref3, Arc Ref300 MK2's, I also had VTL Sig 450's with the 7.5 pre original not MK2 version and preferred VTL 450's and ARC Ref3 combo.

Three of the amps you mentioned, Cat., Vac. and Lamm are all on my short list and want to hear in in my current set-up to compare with what I currently have, this set-up is not in my designated room but a secondary set-up. I am currently using Pass X-600.5 with ARC Ref3 and really enjoying it. I have been told that the REF3 will match nicely with the Lamm but unfortunately no so good with the Cat or Vac so if and when I go that route unfortunately I will be looking at pre's to match the amps. Regarding the VAC 300.1 realistically you are likely looking at two of them along with the Vac Sig. Pre which is allot of money. I have been told that the Cat. sounds marvelous and you will save allot of money going this route but again you should be looking at their pre as I have heard from others the Ref3 is not a good match.

A dealer close to me just got a VAC 300.1 and Sig. Pre so I'm anxiously awaiting for them to be broken-in so I can hear them.

Keep me updated regarding your outcome and if you choose to either get a Cat or Vac's let me know as I'm also looking at one of these.

Ken says the ARC Ref3 is fine with the JL2, he apparently did not think fondly of the Ref2. But then again, why not use the SL1 MKII if your going the CAT way.

I like a remote so no CAT preamp. I current have Phi110 and Pass 350.5 and both mate well with ARC ref3.

I can't do atmasphere due to open design. I have a 2 year old and another on the way.