Used VAC Super? Moscode 401orBelles Reference 350?

i had the opportunity to hear the moscode in my system using an audiolab 8000p, a c22 II mac pre and a nobus proteus(similar to a marantz 7 in character). speakers were gradient rev's and b&w 802 matrix. the sound was certainly 'sweet' and 'smooth' but not without taking care of business in the bass regions. since it is in effect a hybrid it really does fall in between your other two choices. i have always appreciated well designed hybrids. i used to own a nobis amp(cantible) which although not as powerful as the moscode had some of the same character. good front to back, but a left to right as big as sold state. certainly a bigger soundstage than my mac 275.....lush, but not excessively so. the highs were as extended as anything i've heard, but not harsh or hard with older recordings. i've also had lots of experience with belles(before, during, and after his OCM venture). Solid and neutral, but that bit of magic that can't be quantified is with the moscode in this group. if you go ss, look into mac, cj, mccormick, and plinius for the 'big' power stuff. i think you'll hear a difference. that that, the moscode is a winner.

I have the VAC Avatar Super with 4JRs which I think is a great overall combination throwing excellent soundstage width and depth. I don't have a frame of reference to the other amps you are considering but greatlt enjoy the VAC.

Thanks for the feed back all. It would be interesting to hear a used VAC Avatar Super vs the Moscode 401. Maineiac have you heard any of the new phi products from VAC? And if so, would you say the Super has the same character? Obviously there is a difference but would you say it out performs most solid state and tube amps under 5k?

To tell you the truth I bought it without ever hearing it on the recommendation of VSA who had done a lot of demos with the 4JRs and the VAC Avatar Super. They said it was a great match. I compared it against a DK MKII and Musical Fidelity A5 but nothing else. I would love to hear the other phi products. I saw the phi beta at a dealer when I was looking for a turntable last year and didn't even want to hear it for fear that my heart would lust for something that I am not likely to get for a LONG time. The choice of tubes greatly changes the sound.