Whats better than VTL 450 for the money?


Going to be purchasing new tube amps soon and Im leaning toward the VTL MB 450. In this price range is there anything better? I would prefer to buy new. Looking for lots of slam, fast, liquid, not overly bright, and huge 3D sound stage. Room is 13w X 8h x 35L.

Wadia 861
Supratek chennin pre
Cardas Golden Cross intercon
Kimber Bifocal XL spk cable
(2) vandersteen 2WQ subs

Speakers are up in the air but Im thinking either Vandy 3A, Vandy 5A or krell Resolution. If I end up with 5As I will sell the 2WQs but budget constraints will most likely force 3As.

Thanks
braro

Showing 1 response by jeff_jones

I like the Big Rogue, fwiw. Vandersteen has paired them with the 5's at a show or two I believe so if you go with their speaker you may find they have some insights on synergy.
My guess is that you will sooner or later have to swap the Cardas golden cross to get the slam & speed you want. I like that ic but I think you'll find you want something less forgiving when you get your new system complete.
Am a bit cautios about the VK150 reccomendation. I think they have a sound that you will either love or not & will not have the headroom power wise (relative to the Big Rogue and the VTL 450)that you might want for some speakers. They might be just the ticket for your system and tastes but I'd insist on an in home trial.