Recommend a SS amp for my new Vandersteen Quatro CT

Dallas dealer "audio concepts" will do the set up 

I will send the 100.2 to ARC for a checkup.  I figure whether I use the amp or end up selling it I would like to have ARC giving it a good bill of health.  As much as I like that amp I will be surprised if wins out against the 4bsst2.  I know there are many Bryston detractors here but I find the sst2 to have a more refined character than the older Bryston amps.  The SST2 was absolutely better for my fairly low efficiency stand mount monitors.  The extra power and bass control made those speakers come alive.  With the Quatro it may be a closer call because I will be filtering out most of the frequencies that are the strength of the Bryston.  So I am anticipating it will be more of a midrange shootout.  Thank you all for your suggestions.  I have heard Ayre and Aesthetix mentioned before.  The dealer where I am buying carries neither brand and auditioned them for me on ARC Reference Pre and Power amps. 

Of course you are absolutely right about the preamp.  I have an ARC LS-15.  Along with the 100.2 it is a little long in the tooth but still a good performer.

"get the best preamp you can afford"

Interesting suggestion.  I certainly agree that the preamp can impact the sound as much if not more than the power amp...and ideally each should compliment the other.  My LS-15 was modified a few years ago by Great Northern Sound Company.  Although no longer in business, they were highly regarded for their ARC modifications.  The modifications plus the replacement of stock tubes combined to improve the sound of the LS-15 to a fairly significant extent.  All this to say, I am pretty sure I have a better preamp than the original LS-15 but I still wonder how much I may be missing compared to some of the new models.

Good advice.  Thank you.  One step at a time...