VAC 440 Statement mono blocks, any opinions

Hi all, well it has been some time "months" now so has anyone had the pleasure of hearing a pair of these.

I was told they were re-badged differently due to the numbers, now called 450's.

Pix on VAC's website look different than the originals. They now look more like the 300.1. I too would love to hear these monsters one day.

They will theoretically be at CES in January. I believe they have been improved upon since they originally came out, which accounts for the slightly different look. I would like to hear them against my 300.1s, but don't think that will happen anytime soon - I'll probably need a new house just to hold them :-)

I too would like to hear impressions from someone who has purchased them - I know pairs are being made and sold, and have been for a while.

Well guys it's time to refresh this thread because I have actually heard these, listen to them for three straight days.

This was a unique situation for a few reasons,

1. Real world situation, in someones home and just in a normal situation.

2. Three days of listening

3. Paired up with the same speakers (MBL 101E's) as mine along with same VAC Sig. MK2a pre w/phono. What are the chances this could ever occur?

4. Listen to both red book and my vinyl, later being my fav. and preference.

Listening; if anyone has followed along with my journey they know I have tried many different combo's in the end always being open minded, never looked at the price point. I always just wanted to hear what ever it was and in the end the result in my room with my associated gear with no pressure.

I could list the numerous amps but why, it's not really about them.

My initial listening impression's upon arrival;

1. The system was playing at a very low volumn and right away I could hear something very different and very special, everything was so clear, very low floor noise and just made me feel good.

2. After listening to this set-up for three days and going threw my evalution listening to different types of music at different volumn settings I was tring to find fault somewhere.

Answer;

The only fault I found during this time was my face was hurting from smiling so much, my sleep was also lacking.

All things aside and on the serious side I was looking for faults, any.

These mono blocks are crazy expensive but they are the REAL DEAL!

They truly are special amps and I have never heard anything anywhere that even comes close.

I'm not looking at getting into any debates, this is my own experience but if you ever have the opportunity do your self a favour and have a listen but prior to doing such make sure you are ready to drop some serious coin. The sonics they produce over all are absolutely breath taking! jaw dropping!

My hat goes off to you Kevin and all others involved for firstly coming up with such a design but in the end actually following through with such and producing such a master piece.

I was truely left in awe, I can't wait to get mine.