How Much Power Do Vandersteen 5a's Really Need?


I just made a deal for a mint condition pair of these. I've long wanted a really good pair of Vandersteens but didn't have the budget to play in that space. I've read a number of discussions here, and otherwise, talking about this, though they were somewhat older. Despite the fact that the low end in these speakers is internally amplified, and one would think even SET amps, or certainly just about any good push pull tube amp would power these superbly, people generally seem to be throwing a LOT of power at them. Am I missing something?

Any input, expertise, or thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.
nightfall

Showing 3 responses by ozzy62

Although I am firmly entrenched in the "more efficiency, the better" camp, 140 tube watts should be fine to drive these speakers.

Oz


So you are saying all high efficiency speakers are "dump trucks"? Please tell me I misunderstood you.......
pick the right tool for the job.

Broad sweeping statement, but I’ll bite.

Well designed horns with high quality supporting components can be every bit as articulate, detailed and refined as -insert your brand of low sensitivity loudspeaker here-. And where they shine over -again, your brand of loudspeaker- is in dynamics.

So two tools for the same job.

Oz