music nut

I really don't want to spend more than $ 3000.00 to $ 3500.00 for both products and, in reality, less than this would be even better. I am open to looking at used gear as well as new. My current cd players are a Toshiba SD-9000 dvd and dvd-audio player and a Sony SACD player.

This is for anyone who wants to add their two cents worth... I own a pair of Heresey II's and want to power them with tubes. I would like both a tube amp and pre-amp. What are the pros & cons of using the same/dissimiliar manufacturers? Also, I would like to know what specific products people might recommend I consider. My priorities are as follows: 1. Reliability of the products 2. Dynamics & Rythym - I want the gear to be tuneful and capture the emotion of the music. Also, I listen to rock and blues and tend to play it loud. 3. Low Noise - I don't the products making a lot of background noise. 4. Good frequency response. While imaging is important, it is not the end all to be all for me. Some brands under consideration are VTL (the TT25's), Manley Labs (Stingray or something used), Quicksilver Audio (Mini Mite monos), and Antique Sound Lab. I must admit, I am not all that familiar with ASL. If anyone could share their experiences with this company, I would be most appreciative. Your input is valued...Thanks.

Thanks for the great feedback....it is most helpful. I am open to considering other manufacturers if anyone has a suggestion he or she would like to offer. However, the VTL's, at least to me, have an excellent sense of timing and pace that I have not heard from many other tube amps. I am not saying that they are the last word in transperancy and frequency extension; but, again to me, they just get down and boogie and make music come alive. But, like I said, I am not married to the VTL's.

I have just purchased my first pair of horn speakers...a pair of Heresey II's. I plan to power them with VTL tube amplifiaction and pre-amplification. My quandry: the ST-85 stereo amp or the TT-25 monoblocks. I really want the monoblocks as they are easier to place, but I am concerned about that the power of these small monoblacks may not be enough. I mainly listen to both new and classic rock, pop and elctronica, blues, and some jazz. I do listen to music quite loud as I like the dymanics offered from higher volume levels. Any comments will be most appreciated. Thanks.