Tube amps that kick ass?

Fplanner2000, my buddy just replaced his VTL 450's with a pair of the VAC Phi 300.1 monos and as you say, they're wonderful. Right out of the box they stomped the 450's in every sonic area I can think of and they continue to improve with breakin. Of course at $18k each retail, they should be good.

As Atmasphere says, the M-60s would probably work well and I almost went with them but in the end I figured if 60 watts was good, 140 would be even better. They are quite "spectacular."

Rfogel8 - Your friend is in for a real treat as the VACs break in. Catch them after they've broken in a while and you might be looking for a way to afford them yourself.... ;-) They really are pretty special.

I also have a high opinion on the VAC.
Besides the VTLs are rolled from the top

rogue audio appollo monoblocks, killer amps , great bass, even with revel speakers, ie hard to drive. 10k new, good luck, chris

04-29-09: Gallant_diva
I also have a high opinion on the VAC.
Besides the VTLs are rolled from the top

Do you believe the Tube Research are "rolled from the top" as well?

If I'm not mistaken, one of the pair of Tube Research that you tried (or bought) for your system were my old units. They were magic when over biased with EL34 Mullards but sucked with KT88 and 6550 (which were needed to reach any kind of reliability).

I really get irritate with people knocking the VTL 750 when several industry insiders and at least three reviewers consider them the industry standard for performance.