Which amp for Vandersteen 3As?


I am in the process of picking up a very nice pair of Vandersteen 3As. I own several SS amps and am torn between which would be the best match for the Vandys. The amps are: McCormack DNA-125, PS Audio HCA-2, B&K 125.2, B&K 200.7, Adcom GFA-555ii, and a Pioneer Spec-4. The pre-amp will be a Cary SL-100. Any thoughts on which amp would offer the best synergy would be appreciated, especially from current/past Vandersteen owners.
discnik

Showing 3 responses by discnik

That leads me toward the B&K 200.7, which even though it is a multi-channel amp, sounds very good in stereo mode. It can seem a little forward at times, but that may be a good thing with the 3As. It definitely has sufficient power to drive them. I really can't complain or lust after higher-performing speakers since I am only paying $900 for the 3As, especially since they are
literally mint condition cosmetically.
That leads me toward the B&Ks, especially the 200.7 - it fits that general description to a T. Even though it is a multi-channel amp, it sounds very good in the stereo mode. The 3A Signatures are no doubt a superior speaker, but I am getting these mint condition 3As for only $800, so I can't complain or lust after other higher-performing choices. Thank you for your insight/input....it reinforces some of what I intuitively felt after hearing the 3As.
Thanks for the tips, Bob.....from the responses so far, it looks like the 3As will sound good with most amps, but will perform best with modded versions. I'll probably look into having the DNA-125 upgraded since that is the best all-round amp I own. I'll try a couple of my amps with the speakers and see how that goes. My opinion is that I can't lose either way, just make things better.