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

Charles I simply meant they get it right for their products as designed not that they do it any better or worse than others who do it differently for different reasons. Practically their tube amp market share probably does help confirm the relative effectiveness of their approach for many using many different speaker designs.


I would love to own a VAC but would probably only do it if I were willing to build my system around it, mainly the speakers. Atmasphere (OTL) is another example of a higher output impedance tube amp that dictates certain speakers more for best results. SET tube amps are of course another.  


ARC tube amps would seem to fit better for more that build around certain speakers that may be a harder load to drive but still prefer a tube amp.

Different strokes......

Mapman,
Yes I see your point, expanding the potential field of speakers that could be used successfully.
Zero NFB amplifiers would require more specific /careful speaker matching.  But oh so good when that match is right  😊.
Charles, 
I have had very low NF SS amps designed to sound more like tube amps and they had their unique charms.

The best products are always designed by the best engineers capable of making the right design decisions and backed by a manufacturing process capable of realizing it reliably. Well designed and made products + system synergy is everything when it comes to performance and results. These are all top notch product lines being discussed so the key is to get the synergy right and each amp line is significantly different in that regard..
I wish it was easier to audition the amps with the speakers. It is an expensive journey and I won't have a lot of time with the pairings. So, let's all hope my ears (and my heart) are open to the music. Thank you again and again. 
Hi Rinpoche,
You are correct in that as good as home auditions are your time with the amplifiers is understandably limited. However it’s still a very worthwhile and valuable exercise. You reference using your ears and heart, absolutely the right approach. Choose what musically touches you the most deeply and you’ll be fine. That's what music lovers do and you're a self confessed music lover. 
Charles,