Vandersteen users: How low can you go with tubes


Hey all, could use some insight from people who have experience with Vandersteen 2ce speakers. I am in the process of upgrading my system, both amps and speakers. I am pretty much set on a pair of Vandersteen 2ce sigs. I noticed they are 87 db efficient with recommended minimum 40 watts power requirement. Still researching and trying to listen to amps, but I am considering moderately-priced integrated amps such as Rogue Tempest Magnum (60 watts), Unison Unico (80 watts ss), or perhaps a used ARC CA-50 (45 watts?). I would really like to go with a good tube amp but not sure I can afford the power I would need to drive these speakers, particularly with separates. Anyone have any insight about how well these speakers do with amps in the 50-80 watt power range? I listen to a wide variety of music, usually low to moderate volumes. Thanks!
jrb25
It sounds like you're comitted to an integrated, but if you're not, another option is a tube pre with a ss amp. I'm powering my 2ces w/ a cj 10al and a mccormack dna .5. Together, they'd cost less than a used rogue and you wouldn't have to worry about power.
I like the Rogue Tempest's flexibility, i.e.. you can add an eighty eight amp later and double the power to your Vandies if you want more power or change to even less efficient speakers. It's an even better buy used.
Take a look at the MANLEY STINGRAY. It is intigrated @ 50 watts a channel the only thing better than the price is the sound. You will find listings here on Audiogon at some bargin prices. The reviews on this product have been Great!

Good Listening,
I'm driving a pair of Vandersteen 2c's with a Cary CAD-808/Rocket 88. I have a pretty small listening room, and I don't play music all that loud, but I'm finding that the Cary's 20 WPC triode mode gives me plenty of power.
i have used my aronov intergrated 60watt with my old 2ci and i am now driving vandy 3asig--this is a great match with the vandys 2s and 3s
i found the bass was full and defined and the midrange with the aronov was great these go used for 1200 to 1400 on audiogon--i have had mine for over 4 years and it is the best value i have seen