Scotthk,
I had an ARC SP9MK2 which is a Hybrid using both tubes and SS and I have the Vandersteen 2CE sigs. I bought some good Amperex tubes and the unit sounded excellent. The phono stage had quite a bit of gain and that was the best phono section that I have heard to date. I have since sold it and bought a Tube Audio Design by Bizzy bee which also has a phono section. While the phono doesn't seem to sound as good as the ARC, the line stage is outstanding, better than the ARC with the Amperex tubes. You can get one new for about $700. I have no reason to change...
Eagleman
I had an ARC SP9MK2 which is a Hybrid using both tubes and SS and I have the Vandersteen 2CE sigs. I bought some good Amperex tubes and the unit sounded excellent. The phono stage had quite a bit of gain and that was the best phono section that I have heard to date. I have since sold it and bought a Tube Audio Design by Bizzy bee which also has a phono section. While the phono doesn't seem to sound as good as the ARC, the line stage is outstanding, better than the ARC with the Amperex tubes. You can get one new for about $700. I have no reason to change...
Eagleman