Jeff Rowlands Amp and Dac vs. VAC amp and DAC

I am back to being nervous about tubes — vs. SS — where this thread started. I am not sure if I am up to it?

The VAC 200iq that Knghifi had suggested provides automatic biasing of the output tubes, which is a feature that makes using a tube amplifier a good deal more convenient than would otherwise be the case.  The Phi 200 and the Sigma integrated do not provide that feature, although the manual biasing they would require from time to time can be performed more conveniently than in a lot of other designs.

Do you think that a SS amp with a tube preamp will give me the 'sound' I am looking for? Engaging, warm, and magical? I guess I have to hear it for myself.

There are always multiple paths to success in audio, including both tube power amp/solid state preamp combinations and tube preamp/solid state power amp combinations.  There are also multiple paths to failure, of course.  So, yes, there's no substitute for hearing it yourself.

If you do eventually have an opportunity to audition a VAC amp with your Sabrinas, per one of my comments early in the thread make a point of checking for any signs of bass weakness, treble over-emphasis, or lack of power on brief high volume low frequency dynamic peaks (such as strong bass drum beats).  As I indicated earlier, while I'm a big fan of VAC products, and in general I don't consider them to have any intrinsic weaknesses, I see those things as **possibly** being consequences of the interaction between their output impedance characteristics and the specific impedance characteristics of the Sabrina.  Aside from that possible concern, and provided of course that its cost is acceptable to you, I would have high confidence that you would be very happy with the 200iq. 

Best regards,
-- Al
   

Tube preamp and ss amp is always a good option.    Just be sure ss amp does not have low input impedance.  You want 30kohm or higher input impedance on the amp and many fit that bill.  

Fwiw I run an arc tube preamp and Class D ss amps and a SS. class D integrated in another.    The main difference in sound I would say is the arc tube preamp adds just a touch of warmth while the class d integrated has a similar sound and smooth as silk midrange but not inherently warm at all.  I would expect similar differences between Rowland and Vac amplification.  

Which sounds better?   Whichever of the two I happen to be listening to at the moment.  🏄

As a previous owner of Wilson Sophia 2s, 3s, and Sasha 1s, I submit much of the hatred of Wilson is due to "some extent" of Wilson owners. Many, but not all Wilson owners really exhibit the classic clique mentality(they really don't like the thought of someone not liking Wilson's). At one time I defended Wilson Speakers and would argue with anyone who disagreed, I don't own them any more, but I respect their dynamic ability. Just my thoughts.

rinpoche,
Your say you aren't an audiophile but you love listening to music,  I'd strongly advise you to keep that perspective and mindset. Just approach choosing audio gear as a means to enjoying music.  This keeps it simple and honest. Choose the products that move you the most emotionally. Don't worry at all about product bashing, it is just personal opinion and nothing else.  Trust your ears and taste, there are no audio  products that generate 100% consensus ever! 

Tube preamp with SS amplifier is a popular choice and can be terrific but it isn't the same as a tube power amplifier. I'm not saying one is inherently better than the other,  just that they aren't the same listening experience. As you listen to more components and speakers you'll find out what you are drawn to. I believe that you'll be fine. 
Charles, 

You are the best!