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Any opinions on VTL mono-blocs MB450, etc ?

I'm currently using an ARC VT100 MkII & really like it--think it's a great amp. Based on that I'm definitely a ARC fan, but I'm also drawn to VTL products. Recently I read a rave review of the VTL MB 450 Signature mono-blocs in S'phile--& I'm wondering how these would compare to the VT100? I'm guessing they're pretty amazing. Also, does anyone have any experience with reliability, dealing with the weight, heat, etc. of these VTL MB's? I had a little VTL ST-85 for awhile; an older version, very "tubey", & noisey, but I liked it despite all that.

One thing I'm thinking is: the VTL stuff always seems like a "relative bargain"--maybe?--compared to CJ or ARC. I'd be looking for used amps & would have to have shipped.

I suppose I could get a pair of Cary V12 mono-blocs instead.....or a VT200.....however the VTL MB's always seemed like they might be "the ultimate" for me.

Rest of my system: Cary 303/200 CDP, VTL 2.5TL pre-amp, Rega P25/Benz Glider, B&W M802SIII speakers & Merlin TSM-M's (I alternate between the 2 sets of speakers; trying to bring myself to sell one pair but can't so far ).

Thanks in advance for any advice on all this!

Steve
steveaudio
mejames
986 posts
 
hello Steveaudio I was loaned premier 12 amplifiers for approximately 3 months before they simply are not in the same league as the 450 signatures especially the bass.
Audition the 450 signatures somewhere you will see.
in addition to my previous post above I have had absolutely no reliability problems with my 450's since I purchased them. They run cooler than most other tube amplifiers because of lower bias which increases tube life considerably a good idea for saving $. I actually prefer the 450's to my recently sold Wolcott presence 220 amplifiers which just sounded to thin and lacking some harmonic richness in the mid range compared to the 450 especially in triode mode.
Wolcott amplifiers have considerable heat output much warmer than the 450's
noble110
49 posts
 
You might also consider Air Tight ATM3 mono blocks. I have them matched to Genesis 500 speakers. A terrific value for the performance vs. price.
I have not compared them to the VTL 450 amps, and would welcome feedback from anyone who has compared these amps.
piezo
304 posts
 
from my auditioning the CJ are a lot more tubey than ACR or VTL. As mentioned above the triode mode in the VTL is killer in small group stuff, acoustic music and vocals especially. ARC doesn't have that option. If you want a bit more thump then flip the switch and go tetrode. My 185s have been spending most of the time in tetrode. Compared these with the ARC and think the VTL has a more open natural sound. VTL are also monos while the arc is a single chassis so there are room and set up considerations. The monos do throw off some heat, good in the winter when i do the most listening, less so in the summer. I wouldn't really complaing about owning either the ARC or the VTL but prefer the VTL. THe 185s are plenty for me and the only other consideration for me may be the 250 triodes. The 450s and bigger would only be of use for difficult speakers or a huge room IMHO. As to problems: have an intermittant hum in one of mine that goes away as soon as you toggle the power switch on and off. been that way for 3 yrs, ain't bad wnough to be without them to get it fixed. Was playing them way to loud the other day and blew a B+ fuse when i turned on the vacuum (could barely hear it)....time for dedicated lines i would guess.
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