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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
lloydc's avatar
lloydc
753 posts
 
The Quicksilver amps look relatively easy to upgrade, e.g. better caps, being wired point-to-point and more classic than exotic; anyone doing that? 
lloydc's avatar
lloydc
753 posts
 
The Quicksilver amps look relatively easy to upgrade, e.g. better caps, being wired point-to-point and more classic than exotic; anyone doing that? 
pesky_wabbit's avatar
pesky_wabbit
1,183 posts
 
All I can say is that any designer that references RDH3 as the foundation stone for learning about tube circuitry knows what he is talking about.
bobv
1 posts
 
WARNING -Do not Buy VTA amps if you have any issues with your line voltage, are they cheap-yes, do they sound ok-yes, I had nothing but constant issues with the VTA 120, I was told to make over 4 changes, none resolved the problems I was having, they are far from perfect, and there are many complaints about the electrical issues regarding the VTA 120 and 125s. I purchased the Quick Silver Monos, had them for over a year, they are perfect and can handle my voltage that can fluctuate over the 120s, no issues whatsoever.
decooney
2,110 posts
 
[@lloydc] The Quicksilver amps look relatively easy to upgrade, e.g. better caps, being wired point-to-point and more classic than exotic; anyone doing that?


Yes.  Not totally necessary, yet ultra high-end caps and quality input/driver tubes do bring the sound of the monos to a level equal to amps at a much higher cost. 
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