Need Preamp and Amp to Match Vandersteen 3A Signature Speakers

My experiences and thoughts.

Quicksilver, heard with 2ci's almost 30 years ago, unforgettable. ARC which I've heard on numerous occassions some results excellent some magical all a synergistic match with these speakers and Atmas-phere, never heard with any Steen but sounds like a good possibility depending on room size and priorities. I'm definitely a big fan of the M-60s. Threshold SA-1 all Class A, the best SS I personally heard Steens paired with. A while back for sure but still quite memorable. Personally I prefer tubes all things considered. Then there are the numerous amps both tube and SS that would work well I'm sure, Ayre is often mentioned.

Johnny Rutan, I would most like to hear you're informed opinion, all matters considered.  Bottom line, these speakers aren't a difficult load for a wide variety of amps.  

Belles would likely do well (Johnny can tell you how well), or more upmarket Aesthetix or Backert preamp+Pass amp.

Thanks everyone for your input.  I forgot to add that my total budget is $6K and I am OK with tube amps, provided the sound is warmer and less analytic.   Thanks again - it is so great to get advice from people who know what they are talking about.  It is confusing out there!!!

If these are still available from Audio Advisor, at $499. each, you can get a pair of Nuforce STA 200 amps and vertically bi amp your Vandersteens ( you can also biamp horizontally, but I prefer vertical, which is one amp per speaker ). If your sources produce 2 volts output, you can go passive ( I use a Luminous Audio Axiom Walker mod unit, which is awesome. You will have plenty of money left over for other things, cables, music, etc. And if you, or anyone else, laughs at my suggestion, it is your loss. Your money. Enjoy ! MrD.

@darmento If you don't think it's confusing in here, you haven't been here long enough.

Another recommendation then: Rogue Cronus Magnum II.