ARC Reference 110 vs older ARC amps eg VT150

First of all, the VT150/150se (monoblocks) or the VT130/130se (stereo) are in a class by themselves. Both sonically, and among ARC's designs. They have fully balanced circuits, balanced inputs (only,) and tube regulated power supplies. If you can get your hands on a used pair of VT150se ($16k/pr in '94), you'll be very happy! I'd suggest you check their S/N w/ ARC to find out if they have the capacitor upgrade, and if not, order the kit ($200/unit)

Read more: http://www.arcdb.ws/VT150/VT150.html
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Hi guys,

Thanks for your input.
Nsgarch, what does the capacitor upgrade do for the sound of the VT 150's?

On the subject of the SE's (special editions) are they an improvement in sound quality over the regular VT150's or is it just cosmetic? Some of my friends believe that the only difference is the faceplates and meters, others say the the SE has better circuit design.
Who's right?

Cheers
Mick

The specs are the same for either. The main difference is convenience (and, let's face it, cosmetic ;-) The SE versions (applies to the 130SE also) make bias-checking much easier (a good thing because you'll do it more often) and all cords and cables are from the rear panel.

The cap upgrade is well worth it for smoother highs and mids.
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I respectfully disagree with Nsgarch. The VT150 was very impressive in its day, but ARC has surpassed its sound with many amplifier models since.

The VT100mkII and VT200 (very similar designs) are faster, tighter, and more extended. The next generation VT100mkIII and VT200mkII are even better sounding still, with improved detail, high frequency refinement and openness.

The REF110 is in another league still. It is much more transparent than any of these amps and has a more liquid, open, grain-free presentation. It is also more dynamically free and effortless sounding.

Hearing the VT150 today after being spoiled by 4 generations of newer ARC amps leaves it sounding a bit veiled, slightly grainy, a little soft, overly round generally, and tubby and less extended in the bass by comparison. That's not to say that the 150 is without its own charm, it's still a very special amp compared to many others. But with that charm comes with significant coloration, lack of control and loss in transparency by today's standards.

This wouldn't be as important to someone who is used to more colored tube sound or older gear generally, but the original poster is already spoiled by his current LS26 preamp, which is very similar in terms of character and transparency to the REF110...and very different sounding from the older VT150.

I'm an ARC dealer

Mick, there are two, beautiful VT130SE's for sale here, both for $3700. I'd buy the one in Pasadena, because it will probably cost less to ship.

If you want some other points of view ;-)) search VT130 on the amp and tube forums at Audio Asylum too.