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AR VT80SE compated to Ref 75SE amp discussion

I have a short list of power amps
Quicksilver V4 or Mono 120AR VT80SE or Ref75SE
Can anyone tell me the sonic differences between the 2 AR amps? I understand the differences feature wise but since they are both the same power ratings I was wondering about the sound quality of each. Note that I will be purchasing these without demo that is why I am asking.
jimbones
jimbones OP
261 posts
 
The VT80SE is balanced, or at least the reviews say so and there is a XLR on the unit. I'll give Paragon a call.
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
@jimbones

https://audioresearch.com/product/vt80se/

no, the vt80se doesn’t have balanced topology - they just give you one set of xlr inputs for convenience if you only have a balanced source, but the circuitry is not balanced - read the description of the vt80se vs the ref 80 (ref75 replacement)

the guys at paragon will confirm
ghdprentice
7,477 posts
 
To me the VT80 really captures the magic of music… it also has the newer internal auto biasing circuits which are likely to have longer tube life. I was simply captivated by this amp when I first heard it. I really wanted to buy one the moment I heard it (but I already have an all ARC REF system). It is simply a beautiful sounding piece of equipment.
jimbones OP
261 posts
 
seems like I cant go wrong with either one. I hate when companies install XLR on the equipment but dont install the required circuitry.
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cleeds
6,060 posts
 
jjss49
... the vt80se doesn’t have balanced topology - they just give you one set of xlr inputs for convenience if you only have a balanced source, but the circuitry is not balanced ...
I think you are mistaken. ARC is noted for its differential amplifiers - even amps like the old D76 that had only single ended inputs were differential amplifiers.

If you check the VT80’s specs, you’ll see that the input Z is 300K ohms balanced but 150K ohms on the single ended inputs. That suggests a balanced amp to me.
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