Hello Sir,
It is apparent that you know your gear and have the $ to be able to buy pretty much what you want. I also assume that you are totally familiar with room acoustics, and the basics of synergy between components and all else. These factors are HUGE in determining what is "best" for you. While I have not invested mega bucks (and that needs to be defined) ever on gear, I have arrived at my final system unless I move into a different house/ audio room. I am using the Green Mountain Audio EOS HD's with the Vandersteen SqW subwoofer. I have a Bent Audio autotransformer based passive pre, and a 25 watt push-pull Daniel Fabricant EICO St-70 clone. All high-end wiring and digital source - no vinyl. What makes this system magical is that the Vande sub uses a first-order cross-over as does the GMA"s - no phase issues. The low watt tube amp is "relieved" of stress to be able to properly produce lush musical mids and highs, by the Vande outboard crossover removing all under 80 hz, and that with amplifier impedance matching via dip switches in the cross-over. In short, you have a powerful, and yet extremely musical and dynamic set up. Sorry for all the embellishments, but this is what works for me and for a whole lot less money. If you want to spend more, get 2 subs for better spacial cues. PS - my mother was a very gifted concert pianist - my musical memory is quite keen and I know what sounds "correct". Have fun - Eric
It is apparent that you know your gear and have the $ to be able to buy pretty much what you want. I also assume that you are totally familiar with room acoustics, and the basics of synergy between components and all else. These factors are HUGE in determining what is "best" for you. While I have not invested mega bucks (and that needs to be defined) ever on gear, I have arrived at my final system unless I move into a different house/ audio room. I am using the Green Mountain Audio EOS HD's with the Vandersteen SqW subwoofer. I have a Bent Audio autotransformer based passive pre, and a 25 watt push-pull Daniel Fabricant EICO St-70 clone. All high-end wiring and digital source - no vinyl. What makes this system magical is that the Vande sub uses a first-order cross-over as does the GMA"s - no phase issues. The low watt tube amp is "relieved" of stress to be able to properly produce lush musical mids and highs, by the Vande outboard crossover removing all under 80 hz, and that with amplifier impedance matching via dip switches in the cross-over. In short, you have a powerful, and yet extremely musical and dynamic set up. Sorry for all the embellishments, but this is what works for me and for a whole lot less money. If you want to spend more, get 2 subs for better spacial cues. PS - my mother was a very gifted concert pianist - my musical memory is quite keen and I know what sounds "correct". Have fun - Eric