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VAC + Wilson Audio

Hi all,
This is my first post on Audiogon.

I am currently on the hunt for a pair of Wilson Audio for my current setup; VAC Signature Mk IIa SE pre-amp driving the Bryston 4B3 amp. Currently use the the Neat Acoustics SX1 that do the job.

Intention is to eventually get a VAC 200IQ power amp to drive the Wilson Audio speakers down the line. My regular dealer that deals with VAC has been trying to sell me on the new Kharma Elegance S7 (they are indeed very beautiful) but my intention is trying to keep the sound cohesive.

Just wanted to find out if anyone here who have had come across the setup (VAC+WA) before and if you do what are your thoughts? Thanks...Bob.

bob82
11 responses Add your response
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
I know Egar, he said the 4B3 drove his Alexia's, if they did that, then your choice is easy, it will suit any Wilson, take your pick, and enjoy.

http://www.bryston.com/PDF/reviews/2017_08_Review_4B3_Audio_Esoterica.pdf

Cheers George  
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,803 posts
 
Used to sell tons of Vac with the original WP 3, 5, with the Vac Ren 70.

Vac does go well with Wilson, the Kharama Elegance are fantastic speakers  personally we like them better than the Wilsons. 

However if you have your heart set on the Wilson sound then it is up to you to determine that. 

The combination of tube preamp with the Bryston is a good combo as the Bryston amps are a bit lean and the Vac Ren stuff is warm.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
Post removed 
bob82 OP
12 posts
 
Thanks for all the responses.

Just out of curiosity, with a drop in impedance from 4  to 1.9 ohms @92hz in the Wilson Audio Sasha mk1 that I currently have on my sights, would it affect a tube amp like the VAC judging by the fact that VAC 200IQ delivers 100w in stereo ? 
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,721 posts
 

bob82

Welcome! very interesting Bryston/VAC combination. What cabling are you using?  Happy Listening!

bob82 OP
12 posts
 
Hi Jafant

The Bryston/VAC combination is a bit odd but the Bryston being neutral it makes it more enjoyable. I had the Audio Research Reference 5 linestage with this Bryston amp before. The VAC drives any solid state amp- it has a low output impedance about 300ohms.  

My cabling is a bit of abomination 

Power- Nordost Frey 2 /Red Dawn 2 fed from Shunyata Triton v1

Interconnect and Phono - Transparent Audio Super Gen 5 

Speaker cables- Shunyata Research Ztron

I am thinking about swapping the Shunyatas with Transparent Audio pair if I get Wilson Audio Sasha 1. 

preamp2
23 posts
 
Someone heard First Sound pre and VAC 200 iq ?

wrm57
1,048 posts
 
I paired Bryston 28B2 with a VAC Phi Beta preamp, which has a very similar circuit to yours, and it worked well. Ultimately, I found the Brystons too dry and replaced them with a VAC 300.1a, so I understand your plan. Sorry, I can't help with your speaker decision, though.
dguitarnut
136 posts
 
Get the Vac 200iq.  Nothing goes better with a Vac Preamp than a Vac amp.
They were designed for each other.  My Magico S3Mks are connected to the 2-4 ohm posts and sound delicious.
Post removed 
dguitarnut
136 posts
 
Get the Vac 200iq.  Nothing goes better with a Vac Preamp than a Vac amp.
They were designed for each other.  My Magico S3Mks are connected to the 2-4 ohm posts and sound delicious.
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