Amps to use with Von Schweikert VR4jr's

I've got the VR-4 GEN III SEs and have tried a number of amps with them, including the Spectron MIII and JC-1s mentioned above. As Dan stated it comes down to personal preference. I had trouble relaxing with the Spectron MIII. It is very detailed, almost artificially so to my ears. The JC-1s on the other hand was more natural and relaxed sounding, and threw a larger soundstage. They also have seemingly limitless reserves of power with the VR-4s. I have since switched to tubes and currently drive my VR-4s with a CJ PR140. It does not have the slam of the MIII or JC-1s, but it does have a well controlled and tight bottom end. Vocals and intruments with the CJ just sound more life like to me, and as a result I feel more involved in the music. In the end there is no substitute for listening to these amps in your own system. But if you have the room the JC-1s would be worth a try if tubes are not a consideration.

If you are interested in a pair of JC-1's (which I use with my VR4 Gen III SE's), let me know. I may be selling, and if I do I will give you a good price. It was actually Tom, I believe, who got me to try the JC-1's (Thanks Tom). Tom is correct that you will find it takes some juice to really drive the Von's. I am considering going to an effienct speaker (Db99's).

Like Tom_munro, I can attest to the sweetness of the VR4 Gen III (and by extension the VR4 Jr), with tubes. I'm driving my VR4 GenIII with VAC tube amplification , and the top end and midrange is free of any brittleness I experienced with solid state amplification (Bryston).

Another vote for JC-1 Halos. I tried them with VRjr, and then left tubes. I agree that the VRjr needs more power and control than most tube amp will allow, and the bass will not be satisfying.

The Halos exhibit outstanding control, sheer overall power and tight, yet natural bass with weight and authority, that is very appealing. Some of the tube midrange character is gone, but it is a surprisingly natural, transparent portrayal that is SS at its best.

The very revealing and transparent VRjr is allowed to present its clear window on the sound that is the best I've had in my system. I don't miss tube amps anymore but a little.

For something really different, and exciting, H2O Signatures.