I'm moving back to the states in a few months and would love to try different amp on my 2 Ce Sig II, something I was unable to do for various reasons. I'm looking for 150+ watts of power that is true to the music. My system consist of Belles 150A Ref, Belles 21A modded w/Auricap and diodes, BDA-1, Rega Apollo, Dynamic design digitalcable, DD MK2 IC and DD bi-wire but will be switching back to Goertz MI2 bi-wire. I've seen in magazines that Audio Research is mated with Vandies the most.
Audio Research TUBE amps are often mated with the Vandersteens ... I think you would have to spend alot of money to signifacntly upgrade from the Belles if you are looking for a solid state amp
I agree with Jrinkerptdnet with regards to the Belles.How did you decide on 150 watts? Vandys do not require a lot of power. I have heard them with quicksilver amps and they sounded VERY good. 150 watts of tube power is expensive and probably unnecessary
Thanks for the suggestions. I returned to the Hi-Fi arena after a five year break and bought everything based on recommendations versus a listening test. My Belles equipment is very good but I didn't gain much low end control over the Rogue Cronus Integrated Tube amp, which was fantastic. Tubes to my ears seems to have a special quality that enhances the listening experience. After some serious listening, the equipment I have may be what I keep but I owe it to myself to something different.
I didn't care for Audio Research in the late 90's but will look into auditioning a SD-135,VS115 or a Bat. I'd love to hear any other you come up with.
I think you would be hard pressed to do better than the Quicksilver V4s to match up with the VSs. I think Richard used them for many years. I think they are 120 watts with the KT88s - that is a lot of tube power. But, I do think you already have pretty darn good equipment.
The monoblock suggestions is a good one, not sure why, but I think the Belles in mono put out 4x the power than in stereo. I guess I just think you've got something good and I'm not I would make the amp change. If I were you and the room permits, I think you would really "move up" by upgrading the 3A speakers, that I think would be an unquestioned upgrade.
Thanks for your advice, you've nailed down what I already felt, just needed some encouragement I guess. I have considered upgrading to the Quatros and that's what I may actually do.
That sounds like a really good move, at least before considering an amp change, it will be a big change for the better in almost every way. If you do look to make a change down the road on electronics, you might want to consider the Ayre gear which has sound really good with the VS speakers at shows.
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