McCormack or Quicksilver for Vandersteen 2ci?

I had 2Ci's and drove them for a short time with a Classic 60 (I've since moved up to 3A Sigs). It was a very good match, no real problems in the bass, just the inherent warmth of the 2Ci's. I also tried a pair of the Quicksilver monos (8417?) at one time and I really liked the mids, but the bass was a little to loose. Power was a little marginal too. More recent Quicksilvers are reportedly much better in the bass and the M-60 has more power. I've never heard the MCormack but I've heard nothing but good things when matched with Vandersteens. I would say all of the chocies are good ones, but as always, try it in your system if possible.

FWIW, I am driving a pair of Vandy 2CE's with a Rogue Tempest Magnum, and the sound is excellent. You might consider the 88 Magnum, the M-120 mono's, or the new M-150's. All are excellent amps at their respective price points.

Also, FYI - based on pics from CES, it looks like the Vandy room was using a pair of Audio Research tube mono's to drive the new Quattro's. If the mid's are important to you, I think either of the tube amps you mention would really make you happy.

Best of luck,
Eric

Ewha is correct. If you want luscious mids from Vandy 2s' you want a tube amp with at least 50 watts , the more the better, and good bass control. Nos retubed Rogue M-120's (magnum if you can) or 150's will get you there.

Apples or oranges? If it were me, I'd pick the MaCintoshCORMACK.

If you're itchin' for an upgrade and love the Vandersteens then I would recommend moving up to the 2CEs or CE Signatures. The tweeter on the CE is much better and the overall presentation is more coherent. Given the market for used Vandersteens, it would probably only cost you a couple hundred $$ for the UG. Money well spent.

From there, I'd start experimenting with amps. Of those you mention, I'd recommend the ARC Classic 60, but given your room dimensions, that might not be enough. Perhaps an ARC D-115MK2 (of which the Classic 60 is a direct descendant) would be a better match. They can be found for about the same price as the Classic 60 and have almost double the power with ALL of the MAGIC.

Good luck.