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Are Quicksilver power tube amps in the same league as VAC, VTL, BAT, ARC, ...?

I see that VAC, VTL, BAT, ACR power tube amps are almost twice or more expensive than Quicksilver power tube amps at the same power ratings.
Are Quicksilver power amps as good as twice or more expensive brands?
I am considering power tube amps with 80, 100, or 120Watts power ratings and I just wonder.
I don't have much budget (under 5K) and my choice is either new QS or those other brands used.
If not QS, which brands are best bang for the buck for power tube amps?
I need to drive 87dB speaker, so the power has to be at least 80Watts.
Thanks for your input.
128x128ihcho
allison2
30 posts
 
Yes, Quicksilver amplifiers are that good.  I'm currently listening with Quicksilver V4, and over the years have owned Quicksilver mini-mono, Quicksilver mid-mono, VTL ST150, VTL MB100, and Manley Labs 75+75.     
 
   
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wjob
62 posts
 
@decooney - what tubes are you using in the Mono 120s?  I have stock and am thinking of rolling.

The mono 120s are great units.  Hard to say how they compare with the big boys as I've never heard them head-to-head in the same system.  That said, it isn't clear what they are lacking in terms of performance.  I asked my dealer what would be better (the QS are one rung from the bottom of what he carries).  He demurred and said something about cosmetics, taste, etc.  
arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,664 posts
 
Sorry folks, I didn't mean to imply that QS is one of those 'flash-in-the-pan' companies. It is undoubtedly a great company with a value-focused, no frills approach. I've owned two of their products in the past -- Quicksilver headphone amp and integrated amp. Like I said, excellent products "within their respective price brackets."


gochurchgo
920 posts
 
While we are extolling the virtues of Mike and QS, does he offer cap, resistor or other (non tube) upgrades? Just curious
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