2. amps-preamps
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VAC Owners:Outboard Phono Stage?

I'm contemplating my next upgrade. Thought you guys could help.

I spin mostly vinyl. I have a great analogue front end that feeds a VAC Standard LE pre and VAC PHI 200 amp, both of which I love. The MC stage on the pre is really good, but a little noisy (hiss). Kevin is sending me new 12AX7s that Brent will test for very low noise at the VACtory. Those guys just rock!

My question, however, is how much do I need to spend on an outboard MC phono stage if I want a significant upgrade to the already wonderful sound of the built-in stage?

I know, why don't I just enjoy the wonderful sound? Because it's upgrade time, baby! There will always be a next level (we really need a 12 step group for this hobby).

I'm looking at the Zesto Andros ($3900), the Herron VTPH-2 ($3700), and possibly the new Manley Chinook ($2200).

Ideally, I could audition these in my system, but the nearest dealer is far away, so I'll have to order one.

Any thoughts are welcome. Thanks,
Alón (no, not Wolf)
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alonski OP
158 posts
 
Dev and Podeschi,

Congratulations on your superb choices. I covet your Statement 450s, both the stereo and the mono blocks. When it was in the VACtory, Kevin told me that I own the best Standard LE with MC he's ever heard (I'd love for him to hear the incredible improvement the outboard SUT makes), but when I can, to acquire another Phi 200. He said having two is such a quantum leap in musicality and ease. However, my local dealer Bob agreed, but said that a stereo 450 would simply blow away my two Phi 200 mono blocks. Any thoughts on this statement (so to speak)?
fplanner2010
283 posts
 
Even though I am not a phono guy, I've had VAC gear for years. I believe your dealer is correct re:450s - its at a different build/sonic level than the 200's.
fplanner2010
283 posts
 
Having said that, I can also agree that going from 1 to 2 200s is probably better than a doubling of goodness, judging from the improvements I got going from 1 300.1 to 2 of them. Huge difference and afterwards had a hard time believing I had been perfectly happy with just 1.

You get spoiled.... :-)
podeschi
303 posts
 
Agree with fplanner. Two 200 amps will be a big step up and bettering amps 5X as much. I dare say the 200 amps have newer circuitry than 300.1a so two of them should outperform a 300.1a. The 450 series is in a different league tho to my ears. Kevin has outdone himself. More goodness state of the art - I was dubious spending that much money but now feel like I got a deal. And his service is second to none in my book. He hasn't lost his deep commitment to consumers like many brands do when they get arrogant or big. My 450S is my last amp ...until VAC comes out with something better!
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alonski OP
158 posts
 
fPlanner: "Huge difference and afterwards had a hard time believing I had been perfectly happy with just 1" Yeah, I know that feeling. I'm leaning towards getting another Phi 200 and then, maybe, explore upgrading the Caps in my VAC preamp.

Has anyone done any Cap Rolling (is that a term or did I just coin it?) with their VAC pre? I've heard amazing stories about sound improvement by swapping stock output caps with teflon/copper V-caps... anyone with experience doing this?

Podeschi: "And his service is second to none in my book" No doubt Kevin is an audio community hero. One of the few true gentlemen I have met in the high-end world.
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