I'm also a big fan of Vater sticks... I've tried the Los Angeles 5A's but found that they're too short and don't give enough reach around the drums.. they also don't generate very much power.. but if you're playing light stuff like jazz and have long arms I'm sure they'd be great..

Currently I'm using the Vater Extreme 5A. They're a little longer than regular 5A's at 16.5 inches which I really like about these sticks. The tips are also thicker so they're able to produce a fatter sound on the drums and cymbals. It's great for rock and general purpose..