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ARC = What are the Golden Amps

I'm looking to purchase a new amp (used). What would you consider as ARC's best vintage amps...looking from late 80's to mid 90's with a budget ceiling of $3500. Since my system is pretty much balanced, would prefer the amp be that way also.

My system:
pre amp: ARC LS 25
ARC PH5
VPI TNT 3.5
ARC CD 2
Speakers: Wilson Witts (series 1)
Current amp ARC VT 130 --really like it esp for small jazz, all vocals. Want more dynamic range for large scale orchestra (I love Malher)
cmcdaniel5
cmcdaniel5 OP
21 posts
 
Thanks for the responses. My local dealer has a pair of M300 MKII that are in the $$ ball park. His perspective is that they are close to the VT 150's. What say you?
fjn04
1,561 posts
 
I heard the Classic 60 earlier this year. This is PP Triode
if I am not mistaken. It sounded very good, with plenty of detail and texture. This one is a winner IMO.
casouza
239 posts
 
The Classic 60 sounds fine, but its input stage uses FETs.
Eventually one hears the FET sound and may experience listening fatigue.
I prefer ARC's all-tube amps, the Golden Oldies.
Also, the Classic 60 is under-powered to properly drive Wilson speakers.

Daniel is correct in looking for something in the 150W neighborhood.

One more comment: Wilson usually demoes their speakers at Hi-Fi shows with VTL amps, you may want to audition them.

Vandersteen usually demoes with ARC, the ARC high-definition amps make the Vandies jump up and dance.

I believe both decisions were based on sinergy.
good luck
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