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How would you characterize the VAC tube amps?

I have been mostly using Pass Labs amps, which, as a SS, has a tube like sound. Now I am thinking that if I like the tubes sound of Pass, why not try tube amps, particularly VAC. I have Soundlabs electrostatic speakers, which are very fast, so I am looking for a tube amp >80W with some even harmonic sound. I have heard good things about VACs and I was wondering what type of sound VAC amps have. I am particularly interested in used VAC amps which may be more reasonably priced (assuming they are reliable). I would appreciate hearing from VAC users.
128x128chungjh
pdreher's avatar
pdreher
1,206 posts
 
I don't think VAC amps can be characterized with a house sound, as sound from their 300B based Renaissance amps (30/30, 70/70) is very different from the KT88 based Phi 200.  

The VAC Phi 200 has very robust bass, but lacks transparency, air and sweetness of their old Renaissance series amps.  

Additional brands you may want to consider:  Air Tight, Quicksilver, Music Reference and Manley
 
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
and of course, audio research
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
2,097 posts
 
I really liked my former combo of a VAC Ren MK5 with a Pass XA30.8.  Sounded great out of my Spendor D7's.  
don_c55
1,025 posts
 
Electrostatic speakers sound best with tube power amps.

I suggest you look at atmosphere or VTL.

They  are both popular with sound lab owners.
whart's avatar
whart
3,021 posts
 
Not that it's meaningful, but that VAC Phi Beta 110 integrated amp is one the most beautiful pieces of electronics ever made. Kevin seems like a nice cat- talked to him many moons ago about a line stage. (I should have bought that integrated amp when it was still in production, though I had little need for it then or now). 
bill hart
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