2. misc-audio
  3. 151822-77425

Your thoughts about an upgrade

I currently listen to vinyl and digital through a VTL integrated amp feeding Vandersteen Treo CT speakers. The November Stereophile review of Vandersteen’s Quatro CT Wood speakers and M5-HPA amplifiers (which is apparently not on-line yet) has made me think seriously about making the jump, which would also require a new pre-amp and lots of cabling.

My listening room is 12.5’ x 15’ and I’ve never turned the volume on the current system above halfway. I think I’m not hearing as much bass as I would like, but it very much depends on the recording I’m listening to.

I can probably go hear the new setup at the dealer and will do so, but I’d be interested in anyone’s thoughts on this move.
john_g
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
@OP, 
The Swarm is definitely one way to go, but I would suggest getting either a pair of 2wq or Sub 3 subs. I really like how the Vandy method relieves the amp from reproducing the power draining bass frequencies. ( I don't know if the Swarm method does this or not, though AudioKinesis should be able to confirm this)
I also own the Treo's (non-CT) and will upgrade to the new Sub 3's when I sell my 2wq's. I think it should get me to about 90% of a Quatro.
I would also consider moving to a zero feedback amp- Like Aesthetix, Ayre or Atma-Sphere.
Bob
john_g OP
80 posts
 
Thanks to all who responded for your thoughtful insights. I went to the dealer (Stereo Unlimited in San Diego) yesterday and they didn’t have the setup in the store. They’ll call me when they do, and I’ll go check ’em out with a couple of recordings I know pretty well. I’ll report back when I do.
john_g OP
80 posts
 
Well, after a couple of listening sessions with my own records, this week I went ahead and did it: Quatro Wood CT speakers, M5-HPA monoblocks, Rogue Audio RP-9 preamp, balanced interconnects between the preamp and amps, new balanced interconnect for the exaSound e32 Mk II DAC. Will keep my existing Kimber 8TC bi-wired speaker cables but shorten them up from the current 10-foot. Dealer will take the Treos and VTL integrated in trade. Should arrive in a few weeks.
gdnrbob
4,417 posts
 
@OP, 
Great move. Though I would consider moving to Audiquest cables.
IMHO, they really compliment Vandy equipment.
Bob
john_g OP
80 posts
 
gdnrbob, I might take you up on that. Got about $1K invested in the Kimbers. In fact the dealer did recommend AQ Yosemites for the interconnects.
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