MiNE 109 said:

The Original Poster seemed to be asking for a good $3k system (stereo
with cd). Vandersteens are designed to be kind to solid state
amplifiers, so that's where I'd start, although I imagine a good tube
amp would serve. (No one commented on my $3k recommendation: Quad
63s/used and a cheap integrated amp.)

Now THAT'S an interesting suggestion, missed that the first time.
Too bad one can hardly find a good pair of 63's where I live for under
$ 3000. Are they that much cheaper in the States?
BTW a cheap amp/receiver will probably have difficulties driving the
63s, but one can always replace the amp afterwards.

--
Sander deWaal
Vacuum Audio Consultancy