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VAC 160i, any experiences

Need opinions.

I am considering going back to a full function intergrated to use with my wilson sofias and was wondering if anyone has heard the VAC 160i. It has all the features that i am looking for, but not too sure how it will mate with the speakers.

mwilliams
ghasley
2,487 posts
 
You need a pre amp. I've tried it several ways with several amps and dacs, to me, there is simply no substitute. Others will tell you they like how direct and connected they feel the music is portrayed, but it is not to my taste.
merlocpm
44 posts
 
I agree that I will need a pre if I go with the Phi 200 amp. I was just trying to get an idea of the differences sonically between the Phi 200 and the 160i
podeschi
303 posts
 
If I had fairly efficient speakers I'd go for the all in one solution of 160i without hesitation. Unless you are going to bi-amp phi 200, not enough power difference to justify additional preamp and interconnects.
wig's avatar
wig
1,250 posts
 
My Avalon Ascendants are are quite efficient at 89db and my Vac 160i drives them very well.
podeschi
303 posts
 
I think the VAC tube amps act like they have a lot more power/current than
their ratings indicate. My VAC 300.1a amp has roughly 150 wpc into 4 ohms,
but punches almost as strong as my 600 wpc into 4 ohm Conrad Johnson
Premier 350 SS amp.
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