Amplifier Suggestions?


A friend recently purchased a Naim NAC 42 preamp. Any suggestions for a good match in a power amplifier (with below $2500 pricetag) to drive Vandersteen 2Ce speakers. Source components are both digital an analogue.
richardmonk
A McCormack DNA 0.5 or 1 in a deluxe version would be a nice choice.A new DNA-1 left over from last year would be well within $2500. If you could find a revision A upgrade this would be even better.The amps can allways be upgraded up the road if you choose.
I agree with Lihifiguy -- can't go wrong with one of the McCormack DNA's. You can also try the Sim Audio Moon W-5. There's one listed on Audiogon for $2600. YBA is also good. The 3a is in your price range (2k), but maybe underpowered at 45Watts. The YBA-2a (high current model) is 3k at 90W. Ayre makes an excellent amp: the V3 is 100W, $1.7k, and sounds great (Ayre will no longer make these because they cost too much to build for the price they charge for them). But, as always, its best to try before you buy.
hi, how about a Bryston 4b. 200wt/chn into 8 ohm....>>>without any hint of audible strain.This should be nice over-kill..20 years of no questions asked service????? bass performance's out of this world...mids are transparent, top end " un-colored accurate....and can always get one used for $1200 to $1500...
In the $2500-$3000 price range you could consider a used BAT VK-60 (60 wpc) tube unit, or a used VK-200 (200 wpc) solid state unit. Both are exremely musical and would be a great match for the Vandersteens. Size of room and listening levels would dictate the choice. The VK-60 mid-range is magical.
Not the McCormack. To me, the Vandy's are a bit dark and mid/bass heavy. The McCormack is the same way. Very good mids(more holographic than most) but the highs are rolled off IMHO. A better match for the Vandy's would be Sim Audio or Bryston.