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SS vs. Tubes with Vandersteen 2ce sig II

Hello everyone,
I have been driving my Vandersteen 2ce Signature IIs with tube integrateds since I bought them 4 years ago. My current amp is a PrimaLuna Dialog HP Premium with the stock EL34s and NOS Ciftes in the preamp section. I am searching for a bit more clarity, especially in the mids. I would consider moving to a solid state power amp and either tube or ss preamp if it would provide the clarity I am looking for (and if I could find a buyer for my PL). Wondering if anyone out there has made the move from tube integrated to solid state power amp with their Vandys, and what sonic differences you noticed. I have heard good reports about Ayre and Bryston, for example, and have seen several of each for sale here (looking at used gear only). My room is sizeable and multipurpose--open floor plan, with 15' ceilings. Listening position is about 7' from the speakers, which are pulled out about 3 feet from the back wall.

Thanks.

Vandersteen 2ce Signature II, PrimaLuna Dialog Premium, VPI Prime, Hana SH, SimAudio Moon 110 lp with outboard power supply, Jolida 100A, Auralic Altair, Mapleshade Golden Helix (double runs in biwire configuration), various interconnects (Blue Jeans, Signal, Heartland), GIK Acoustics room treatments.
eskelinfan

Showing 5 responses by gdnrbob

gdnrbob
4,496 posts
 
@OP,
Hmm, your experience mimics mine- though I am using Atma Sphere.
I really like the Atma sound, but I have to say when I switch to Ayre, things seem to be a bit more punchy and tighter.
I have no intention of dropping tubes. In fact, I use them for the winter months to keep the living room warm, as well as giving me a different 'sound'. 
Bob
gdnrbob
4,496 posts
 
Them's two nice nice amps.
I will await your opinion. I have never listened to either, but I do know they are well respected manufacturers.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,496 posts
 
Vandy's pair great with Ayre. An AX7e would be a good integrated, as well as a Belles Aria integrated.
Of course, you can buy separates and get additional power/higher resolution-though it depends upon your budget.

I run my Treo's with either Ayre MX-R's, and KX-R, or Atma-Sphere MA-1's and MP-1, and sometimes mixing between the two manufacturers.
I am not one to be anally searching for differences between components, so take my opinion with a grain of salt.
I find the Ayre and Atma amps to be very close in sound. 
I find the Ayre preamp to be just a hair more 'dynamic' than the Atma preamp.
Neither is a slouch- just different.
So, in my opinion, if you can swing it, buy Ayre.
Sorry, I have no experience with Bryston.
One Audiogon member you should PM is audioconnection (John Rutan).
He know Vandy and will give you the best information.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,496 posts
 
@OP,
Good move on PM'ing Johnny.
Sometimes he doesn't check his Agon PM's, so I will give him a reminder...
And, as far as tubes go Ralph Karsten (atmasphere) would be someone who might be able to offer some info.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,496 posts
 
@OP, 
Glad to be of service. That is what this forum is for.
Johnny is one of the best dealers out there. And, believe me, as a NYC guy, I came to hate dealers with a passion. But, Mr. Rutan broke the mold.
Bob
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