VTL Service ??

Prior to me going into the hifi business, I was interested in purchasing high power tube amplifiers. I called VTL on at least 5 different occasions and was told that Luke Manley would call me regarding the questions I had about the reliability of his amplifiers. I spoke with his wife, who is very nice, a number of times, and was told he would call. It never happened and I decided that was an indication of the service I would receive as an owner. I ended up buying a pair of Atma-sphere MA2 MKII.2's from Duke at AudioKinesis and was very happy with the sonics, reliability and the service I received from Ralph.

I think there are enough "GREAT" tube amps out there with the power that you are looking for, that you should not sacrifice good service.

Their service used to be great (Luke personally delivered a pair of amps to my house), but they've now limited transferrable warranties to the first re-sale, and that decreases re-saleability. And with their success and higher volumes, it's harder to give personalized service. This is understandable. But overall, as the owner of 3 VTLs, I was happy with their somewhat low-urgency approach to service.

I own both a VTL amp & pre-amp. I've never had to have them serviced, but have called VTL many times with questions & they've always been EXTREMELY helpful & cordial. Are you considering buying a brand new one? If so you'll get 5 years of warranty, longer than a lot of warranties on tube equipment. Plus, I think newer VTL stuff is very reliable (knock wood!).