VAC 160i SE vs Audio Research GSi75


Hello all.
Looking for anyone who has experience with these two fine integrated's. The ARC does have the (dis)advantage of a built in Dac which is handy as I am mostly digital at the moment. Both roughly the same wattage, not sure of current ratings. Can pick up either in the used market right now for very similar prices. Want to know what are the sonic differences here? Do they sound a lot different from each other?
Pro's and con's of each. Does one have more weight/heft to the sound? More air, upper and lower end extension and all the good stuff we look for? Is one really a lot better than the other?
I listen to a lot of different music. Mostly classic rock, hard rock with blues, jazz, vocal land instrumental, pretty much the works. Room size is 12' by 18' with 8' ceiling. This opens up to a kitchen and hallway on one side. Aprx 350 sq. feet.
Other equipment would be a streamer probably Lumin. Speakers I currently have are PSB Imagine T3. However looking to upgrade as well to possibly PMC, Gershman Acoustics, Wilson Benesch.
Any info is appreciated.
Cheers!
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xscar11
Another that you may want to consider is the Octave 80se with the super black box.  I was recently considering a VAC 160i, but really loved the bass control and liquidity of the Octave with my focal sopra 3s.
Don't conflate new ARC vs. old ARC (post-Ref 75). Very different sounds and the whitish-SS nature of the several decades prior is gone. I feel new ARC > VAC, but would recommend a TVC + Ref 75SE vs the integrated. Wonderful combination. 

That all said, I haven't owned a Vac amp since the Phi 200 (which incidentally Ghasley on this thread purchased from me).


Can't comment on the amp as I have a Raven Integrated Reflection Mk2 tube amp.  However, I can comment on Lumin.  I have owned the A1 and now the X1.  For ease of use and sound quality I will not consider any other music streamer.  The Lumin Ap is great.
Sometimes if you call a manufacturer they can hook you up with someone near that will give you an audition. Good luck in the search