AMP-Preamp Combo for Vandersteen 2CE's

I've owned and enjoyed my vandy 2ce's (non-sig.) for a couple of years now. Currently, I run them w/ a McCormack dna .5 dlx. and audible illusions 2d pre (which I picked up for 400$), but I started out w/ a Cambridge Audio 50w integrated. Prior to the audible illusions pre, I had a conrad johnson 10al which was very lush, romantic, and tubey. The CJ was very nice w/ vocals, but overall, the AI is much better pre--more dynamic, better bass, cyrstalline highs, plus it has a darn good phono stage. I agree with the above comments that the vandies work well w/ entry level gear (like the Cambridge) and reward investment in better gear. Ideally, it would be nice if you could work with a dealer and audition some gear at home in order to find what you like best.

Diva Classic One preamp and Diva Blue Sky Signature 50w class AB push pull. With this combination I had sufficient power to play earth shaking rock, pop, and yet also had the finese to play classical, jazz, with all the tonal colors displayed.

The sound is very similar to SE tube, but with the mussle to play more demanding music. Plus the price is a steal. Highly recommended.

http://www.divaaudio.com/

For a bargain alternative, I had great music running a theta miles in balanced mode directly into a pair of B&K M-200's. Recently replaced amps with aragon 8008. Wow.

Can I get away with my B&K 4420 with a decent tube preAmp?

Eagleman

I owned a pair for many years. The best I ever heard them was with ARC tube electronics better to my ears than many of the ss products I heard them matched up with. They are truly superb full range speakers in their price range and above and are worthy of much pricier electronics to bring out the best they have to offer which is considerable.