I love the RM10, but I just can't see driving the 3As, I think you would need to get an RM200 or older RM9s - though maybe in the monoblock configuration.
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.
- ...
- 31 posts total
While I agree that the McCormack amps work beautifuly with the Vandy's, one has to be careful when matching them with a tube pre. Some of the higher powered McCormack amps have low input impedance's, and some of the lower powered McCormack amps might be to sensitive for the typically high out-put of most tube pres. It can be done, and done well, but it needs to be done carefully. |
Thanks for the responses. I'm going to do some reading up on the McCormack DNA-125 and the Audio Research 100.2. Does anyone have an idea about how the Vincent Audio 236 MKII or SP-331 might work with the Vandersteens? I imagine that the Music reference, Quicksilver, and Ayre amps probably sound great, but I just don't think the ones rated at or above 100 W are in my price range. I'll also look into the BAT pre's. Does anyone have any additional opinions on what pre's to run, or do I need to decide on a power amp first? Thanks again for the input. It's very helpful. Rob |
I'm using an ARC SP16 w phono and it sounds great. Not to pricey and they come up every now and then. Mating it with a Bryston 3BST at the moment in conjunction with SCE Harmonic Recovery System to help with impedance matching. I also swap out to Quicksilver V4 Mono's. Different sounding amps for sure, but each have their strong points. Still experimenting myself. Cables make a difference as well. Good luck with your research. |
I really think you need a high current, or at least a high(er) power tube (>100wpc), amp to get the best out of the 3A-Sigs for rock and large scale music w/ drive. Having said that, check out these amps for rockin': Rogue M-120 monoblocks(w/KT-88's), VTL 125 MB Monoblocks, and definitely these Manley Snappers |
- 31 posts total