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Jeff Rowlands Amp and Dac vs. VAC amp and DAC

Hello, I am new to this forum but I have a question. I am trying to pair an amp + DAC with my Wilson Sabrinas. I have listened to Jeff Rowlands integrated with the Aeris DAC. And the VAC Sigma integrated with the Aeris DAC. Price is a factor and so is space. Does the 625 need a pre-amp? Any suggestions or thoughts? 
rinpoche
pokey77
1,269 posts
 

Charles, that was exactly the point I was trying to make about the ARC tube integrated; it makes sense that other tube product should also be able to synergize with the Sabrina's as well. And Knghifi, just as a data point, the presentation with the ARC GSi75 did not display bloated bass. Maybe setup in the room needed tweaking? When I heard the Sabrina's with D'Agostino Momentum Amp and Preamp, that was very sweet too. I could have been very happy with that setup, but it is well outside my budget. Again, still fun to dream. I hope that while I'm at THE Show in Newport in a couple weeks that I can hear the Sabrina's with some other amps/preamps that also synergize.

Rinpoche, great to hear the dealer will bring over equipment for you to audition; at this price range that is expected really. I hope that includes the DAC or DAC(s) that you plan to drive the amps with too. Then you'll know exactly what you will have when the check is written or the credit card is read! Hope you are having fun. And take Charles' advice, if the D'Agostino gear is not in your comfort zone that's OK, there'll be something that is and you'll be very happy as well.

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Well rinpoche curious and very interested folks here want to know what you heard.  I hope it was a fun and insightful audition today 😊
Charles, 
rinpoche OP
154 posts
 
Well, in many ways the audition was great BUT both amps have their plusses and minuses. For example, the JR is deep and rich. It has a control quality that seems to excel in the midrange which, in my opinion, is gorgeous. Remember, I don't know the technical terms for these things but it is what I heard. I would say it is a mature amp. One that you could live with for a long time. Was it analytical? Maybe. And this is where the VAC Sigma comes in. Not as much punch (weight?), clarity or sound distinction, but an overall presence that is engaging. For acoustic vocals the JR wins hands down in my view. For chorus pieces maybe the VAC. For quartets, opera and classical they seem even in some ways. I missed the JR when the VAC was on, and the VAC when the JR was on. Perhaps when I go to hear the IQ both of these differences will be captured. Or, as some of you have suggested, a tube pre-amp down the road with the JR. Does that sum it up? 
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Yes your summary is fine and there are no problems with your descriptive writing skills, I understand you clearly . Tube preamp with the Rowland could certainly be a very good option. One thing to keep in mind,  you can modify the sound of a tube power amplifier via trying different brands of tubes  (both the output and the input /driver tubes). This is what many refer to as "tube rolling". You can tailor the sound of a tube amplifier. 

One thing I can tell, you know what you're hearing and that's an excellent trait to have. I have all the confidence that you'll choose wisely,  you know what you like. 
Charles, 
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
rinpoche ,friendly reminder, be sure you are using the appropriate speaker tap (ohms) with your speakers. 
Charles, 
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