Matching an amp to the Vandersteen 3a signatures


Hello all! I just purchased a used pair of Vandersteen 3A signatures and need to find some amplification to drive them. The problem I'm having is my budget. I've seen a number of people recommending amps for these speakers such as Audio Research and and Ayre amps, but these tend to fall outside of my budget range. I'm looking for something in the $3000 or under range new, or under 2300 dollars used. This would need to cover both power amplification and linestage pre-amplification. I will be sitting about 8 feet from the speakers, and like to listen to a lot of rock and modern pop. I tend to like a detailed but relaxed, laid back sound with plenty of bass. I'd like to have some tubes in my system if possible, but realize that this might not be practical at my price point. I've been thinking about maybe a Cayin A100T or maybe a Rogue Tempest, but don't think that would provide enough power. What do people who can't afford ARC gear use with their 3A Vandies? Any advice is appreciated.
robshrode
Vandersteen are really great speakers. The better you feed them, the better they sound.
My brother has the Vandy 3A-Sigs, LS25 preamp, and a 100.2 and loves it.

Not sure you can get the LS25, but the 100.2 will do the job and leave lots left over for a good preamp. You can find them for $800-1,200. Also consider a BAT VK preamp.
I listened to the 3a’s in a shop that was using the parasound a21 and the parasound jc2. Transparent is the word. Fantastic! In fact I am in the process of saving to eventually get that set-up.

Joe in Mobile
Parasound, Odyssey Audio are two products that come to mind and can be frequently found here on Audiogon. I had Vandersteen 2ce speakers for many years powered with a 175wpc Classe amp. As good as it sounded, when I replaced the Classe with an Odyssey Stratos Extreme amp, it really livened up the sound. For Rock I would go with a really good solid state amp from 100-200wpc and if you like Jazz and Classical, go with a tube amp. A tube amp on the Vandersteen 3a's will not do rock anywhere near it's potential.

A Parasound Halo 21 amp goes for around 1300-1500 on Audiogon and an Odyssey amp goes for anywhere from 500-2500 on Audiogon and both come up frequently.

Bob