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ARC SS amp vs tube - bass question

does anyone have any experience listening to ROCK & ROLL on an audio research solid state amp, like the 100.2
versus the same system with an audio research tube amp like
the vt 100?
I have heard the 100.2 connected to the ProAc 2.5 and really enjoyed the low end response. I have heard tube amps are even warmer and smoother but have also heard that they lack bass in some ways. I have not been able to audition any VT 100, etc but really like the sound of ARC SS.--- my guess is that their tube stuff would be even better. Any thoughts from some Tube veterans?
Thanks
planum7e87
slowhand
610 posts
 
I agree with Zaikesman. When I bought my ARC 100.2 amp I compared it to the VT100 mk2 tube amp. I prefered the 100.2 ss amp. It has a very liquid midrange and great bass. I felt that you got the benifits of the ARC tube amp without the excessive heat of the tubes, warm up time required with tubes, and expense of retubing. ARC ss amps are overlooked because they are known for their tube amps. The 100.2 is a real sleeper and they are not found on the used market very often. That is because the few people that discover them, love them!
larryro
19 posts
 
I haven't heard the 100.2, but I have had extensive experience with the VT-100 MKII. The ARC does unbelievable bass -- much better than most tube amps that can be had for remotely near its price. Hard to believe you will find its bass performance unacceptable.
weiserb's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
weiserb
476 posts
 
I have a ARC VT60 and an VTL ST-150 The ARC has good bass but the VTL Will blow you away in the Bass region. Overall the ARC is a hair more liquid and "real" than the VTL. But the ST-150 can Get the Led out! My choice (I hope to get ) is the VTL Signature 450. As long as your speakers aren't pigs the VT 100 is awesome. I use a Powered sub NHT Sub TWO with the VT-60 so I can play at near concert levels. I would suggest you step up to higher power or a powered sub if you are looking for "Who are you" concerts (PS get the MObile fidelity remaster Who are you) Solid state rocks too but it doesen't get you as close to the performer. BTW The Krell 350 Monos are one of the nicest SS Amps I have ever heard effortless !
kevziek
323 posts
 
Slowhand - I don't think so. Search the forums, and almost everyone agrees that the VT-100 is in another league from the 100.2. You can't compare apples with oranges.
slowhand
610 posts
 
Kevziek, check to see how many VT-100's are for sale compared to 100.2's. I will admit that there are more VT100's sold, but there are also many for sale. Ask owners of 100.2's if they would sell their's. I'll bet not many would. I stand behind my statment that this is a wonderful sounding amp without the drawbacks of tube amps.
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