Jeff Rowlands Amp and Dac vs. VAC amp and DAC

Thank you all. This has been very helpful and informative. I have learned a lot. My experience of listening to the JR 625 (upgrade) and the Aeris as well as the VAC was great. If I didn't have the VAC to listen to after I would be very happy with the JR equipment. And it is easier overall to work with (for film and TV). But, I think that the VAC had a little extra magic. I guess that is the tube vs. SS issue. Once I get all the costs and details of what it might cost each time I have to change the 4 main tubes, I will decide. I know I will be happy with either one, but if I go with the JR will I always be thinking "what would the VAC have been like?" And the first time I have to bias myself I will be thinking "should I have gone with the JR!" If these were the biggest problem one had in life, it would be amazing. Thank you all and if there are any other voices of wisdom I would love to hear. 

Rinpoche,
Just as I suspected the VAC  tube magic has smitten you ☺☺. Biasing tubes is no big deal and VAC's are very reliable and  steady in operation. Yes you'll have to replace tubes as they age  (goes with the territory ). Pick the amplifier that in terms of musical fulfillment will make you feel the happiest over the long haul while listening to your music. You've used the term tube magic several times,  I understand what you mean ☺
Charles, 

The Vac amps I have heard are very special.  I have never actually heard them with "tube amp friendly" speakers.   So you just never know until you try.  

Seems we are all agreed — VAC wins! I am feeling bad though because I was reading a thread that totally trashes Wilson speakers. I think the Sabrinas are really perfect in so many ways. I had to save space so they fit in really nicely. But the thread I read makes it seem as if people who purchase Wilson's have no soul. I am not sure why people disparage others for their choices, but in my mind they are really lovely. Maybe I could do better but there are limited funds (e.g., Raidho, Vandersteen, and so on) — this is a very expensive adventure. I appreciate all that you put into your set ups and so on. I haven't even begun to think about cables. And I am shy to say what I am using presently. I know I need a good interconnnect between the Aeris and amp + so if that is something you know about I would love to hear this too.

Rinpoche,. 

Here's the link to the TubeStore (in Canada) so you can get a general idea of what it costs to replace the tube types (e.g. KT88) in amps. There's other sourcing options and brands (particuarly NOS - new old stock vs current production) aside form what TS offers, but thought since you stated that you are new to tubes it would give you something to look at if interested. Good luck with your decision; and happy  listening