Pre/Amp/Int for Vandersteen 2ce Sig II for +/-$3k

Why isn't vintage Mac a good idea? If you're ok with the risks of any vintage gear, Mac is a very safe bet. They can fix and tune up pretty much anything they've ever made. It's not free and nor is it cheap, but it's more than most companies can ssy they do.

Mac makes excellent gear that's built very well. It also sounds great to my ears. I'm not saying it's the best stuff out there, but nothing is the absolute best.

If you're interested in Mac gear, give it a go IMO.

I used Unison Unico SE integrated with my 2 Sigs, and it was a great, enjoyable match. Unison replaced the SE version with Unico Secondo, which has less power, but better build quality.

I tried also Luxman L505u with good results, but not as good as Unison for my taste.

Thanks for your input everyone. I realize that I did not specify anything about SS or tubes. At this point, I'm thinking SS. Seeing as I'm just getting into this, I'm leaning towards simpler, easier, lower maintenance alternatives and SS seems lower maintenance than tubes.

Also, I listen to all kinds of full range music - not just "reference" recordings. I get the sense that SS will have a firmer grip on the low end, which I imagine will be better for rock, house, hip-hop, etc.

I like the idea of an integrated due to "ease of use" but I wouldn't say I'm settled on that if I can get separates that sound better at a similar price.

I realize this isn't going to be the be-all-end-all system but if I could spend a few grand at this stage and get a high quality, competent system to start and develop a better understanding of my tastes and preferences as time goes on - then that's a win.

Thanks again for your help.

Cheers,
Alex

By the way Kbarkamian - I have read that both Mac's and Vandersteens are warm so putting them together is not a great idea but have no personal experience to say whether or not that is true.

Hi Alex, just want to say that I also have the 2ce signature II and I am using the McIntosh MC2100. I can't tell you enough how musical the sound is. The staging is so clear as well as the transparency, the warmth sound to me is perfect. But then that's also depends on what preamp you're using and how the speaker are positioned. No matter what model Mac. you use, but I think the Vandy and Mac are a perfect match.