VAC PHI 2.0 or CTC Blowtorch or...

Brian,
Can you tell me where in Canada the Blowtorch is going; I'd love to finally hear it? I should note that in order for me to justify the cost of a new preamp, the difference between it and the DCC2 would have to be *significant*.

The reason I'm looking into the H2Os is because I can't afford the big MBL monoblocks or the CAT JL3 monos.

Thanks.

My closest hi-fi friend carefully compared his DCC2 to his Lamm L2 preamp, the latter clearly being one of the best sounding preamps made. The two preamps were so close in his system (an all-out system featuring $50k CAT Limited Edition monoblocks) that hearing or describing the differences was difficult. If you look at the threads, you will see that many others report comparing the DCC2 to top-notch preamps and finding the differences to be subtle, and sometimes, the DCC2 "winning". I will alert my friend to this thread and see if he has comments.

I own VAC Renaissance 140/140 monoblocks and think I have an idea of Kevin Hayes' sonic priorities. I could be wrong, but my guess is that the VAC, by virtue of using a triode circuit (two if you count the phono stage), will be a bit bloomier and lush than strictly neutral, and thus sound a bit colored (but good colored) compared to the DCC2, which to my ears is very neutral. You may want to read the Stereophile review of the VAC Renaissance Signature Mk. II preamp, which the Phi is evidently very similar to. The VAC will be built like a tank and never break.

I have never heard the Blowtorch (PS - why didn't they name it "Fireplug" or "Camshaft" or "Betty"?).

Yes, I've looked at the threads and seen that many others report comparing the DCC2 to top-notch preamps and finding the differences to be subtle.

Sprinbok10, however, clearly prefers his Atma-Sphere MP-1 mkII. I wonder, however, if this says more about the synergy between it and his Atma-Sphere amps?

Exlibris: I have two customers who have owned Blowtorch preamps and both prefer the DCC 2. They felt it has greater transparency and has a much more open sound. The VAC is definitely a totally different sound than either as described by Raquel.

I have heard both as well and will keep my comments to myself unless you would like to email me privately.

Exlibris. I think I have a solution for you If you want more density and weight. Replace the Philips with the CDSD. The Philips works well with the EMM dacs but are a little thin sounding. I've had two EMM/Philips repaired and modded by APL HiFi and the mods did just that. Added more weight without losing any detail. Instead of spending your money on an expensive preamp, I think you would be better off up grading your transport to the CDSD. If you can't afford the CDSD you might consider having APL HiFi installing the EMM card from your Philips into a Denon 3910. Included also is his r core power supply, APL master clock and other mods.
I'm currently breaking in the first one and can tell you that it's better than the EMM/Philips. Also better than the EMM/Philips with mods. I will try to post a short review on the APL/EMM/Denon this weekend.
Also be aware that the CDSD that started shipping in April is a second generation model that is even better than the first generation.
I currently own the DCC 2 and have owned the DAC 6e and switchman III in the past.
Frank