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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
ghdprentice
7,494 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.
cleeds
6,064 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.
ghdprentice
7,494 posts
 
For decades Audio Research Amps only offered balanced inputs. The new Reference series now offers single ended, but recommends using balanced.

You can’t go wrong with either. Musical preference. For me, I am completely enthralled with the VT80. I may get one for my library with all this talk.
jjss49's avatar
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
@cleeds

thanks for the add’l info - for years the arc’s entry level amps were run single ended, and the reference series ran balanced... this may have changed in the case of the more recent lines

i’m happy to be corrected re the balanced differential amplifier topology as it relates to the newish vt80 se -- perhaps after the op speaks to paragon and does his detailed research he can set us all straight once and for all

there is no doubt in recent years, arc designers have gotten 'religion' in terms of making the amps more flexible and user friendly for customers - witness the auto biasing, output tube fusing, rca and xlr availability for all models... nice, glad this day has arrived (and long overdue...)  :)




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