Integrated for Vandersteen 2ce sigII

sbank,
excactly at AudioConnection Verona NJ I was not impressed of Rogue/Vandy combo for the reason I described with all due respect to John Rutan...
He also demoed them with Bryston amps which was a-bit better. 
Speed for me was very important factor since I mostly listen to instrumental music rock, jazz, electronic and classical.

So I'm getting the feeling my Marantz is not going to bring out the best in the vandys. I would have no problem replacing my integrated with something more suitable if it will be an improvement and not just a lateral move. I would also prefer to stay with an integrated solid state or tube.

For several years I ran 2CEs with a Conrad Johnson CAV50 ("control amplifier", 4XEL34 based, passive pre,~37 WPC) as my first foray into tubes for a second system.  Really enjoyed the laid back sound for late night listening, quite revealing yet very gentle on the ears. Zero beaming or screech across the bandwidth. Loose but full bass sounded great with 60s', 70s' production values.  I do miss those 2CEs.

+1 adg101. Purchase the Vandys and give the 8004 a try. You can always upgrade later. I do agree that the Rouge integrated is nice. Both have a phonostage. Is this a requirement?

Conrad Johnson has a new integrated- CA 150.
I want to demo it as soon as possible.