VAC 160i, any experiences

Matt,
Let me first say that the burn in time was kindof a joke. I have had plenty of gear that needed significant break in time to settle down. This amp is NOT one of those. If nothing had changed from initial plug in, i would still be quite happy so, out of the box, it was terrific! The additional hours have simply revealed a more "luxurious" presentation. My experience may not be applicable to your situation due to the fact that about 400 hours in is when I swapped in the Mullards. I do believe the amp has gotten more dynamic and snappy. The only ones I saw were silver face w/chrome knobs....mine is the black face w/gold knobs.

Ghasley,

Did you get the balanced option. My cd player is hooked up through the balanced outs and it would be cheaper cable wise to upgrade than to buy new reference cables?

Matt

I did not, i got rca only with mm phono stage......wishing I had asked for balanced, MC phono AND i wish instead of pre amp outs I had asked for a fixed output (to use as a record out).

Thx, the record out sounds like a good idea. I will probably have to order the one i want. Pretty much fully loaded. I am sure they won't have one in house like i want.

The MC is a must.

Really appreciate your input.

Matt

I heard the VAC Sigma 160i at RMAF last weekend. It blew me away. I ran it through all my demo CDs and a few of the LPs they had there. I went back to the room twice. I probably spent at least an hour total listening to this setup (nicely matched with Tannoy Definitive T10 speakers).

I have an Art Audio Vinyl reference, Joule Electra LA-150 MkII, and Genesis M60 monoblocks and have been totally delighted with that combination. The 160i has me seriously thinking of going to integrated.

The 160i at RMAF had the MC phono section and I was doubtful that it could be equal to the best separate phono pre. My doubts were dashed. Kevin has designed a tour de force for the vinyl lover.

The amp is detailed but liquid and smooth and the bass is completely authoritative without any bloom.

The VAC 160i, simply put, makes beautiful music.