2. amps-preamps
  3. 1302139093

Why Not More Conversation about VAC?

As I browse Audiogon's posts...I'm constantly amazed at the lack of attention, questions, remarks about VAC, (Valve Amplification Company).
First and foremost, I'm thinking that most if not all of us are music lovers--and I'm not aware, subjectively, of course, of more, just out and out, musical sounding electronics. And, I don't mean that in a perjorative, 'colored' sense...I mean that in the most flattering sense.
The lack of comments may mean nothing, but it just strikes me as 'absent' from good discussions.
Second, and beyond the stellar sound, if you want great gear, and a great person to buy it from, who better in terms of accommodation, knowledge and service than Kevin Hayes. Like the Bobster (Palkovic) his reputation for building first rate stuff and then backing it to the hilt is unsurpassed.

Kevin is also a great guy AND music lover of the first order...a friend too, but I'm not shilling here, just seriously wondering why VAC isn't further up the discussion ladder.

Kinda like reading Motor Trend Magazine, in which they 'Test Drive' a Mustang in EVERY ISSUE!!!

Just wondering.

Larry
lrsky
knghifi
1,668 posts
 
Mribob, VAC warranty is NOT transferrable and one of the reasons I bought mine new. The other is my preamp RARELY shows up on Agon.

I spoke with Kevin before rolling any tubes and changing the fuse. He gave me suggestions and offered his opinion. He is very supportive in my desire to experiment and always ask me to report anything interesting.

I buy all my rare NOS tubes from reputatable dealers. It's more expensive but have a peace of mine they are genuine and top quality. IMO, the only drawback in tube rolling is $$. Do your homework and if you don't like the changes, take them out.
achilles
135 posts
 
I have yet to see a VAC in any store. Maybe they don't have any dealers in GA.
maineiac
649 posts
 
I bought my VAC integrated used and before the sale called Kevin to confirm the serial # and to ask him questions. He was incredibly helpful and gracious even though I was buying used. He told me that it didn't matter to him, that I was joining the VAC family and he would help in any way he could. Him and his team have always been great. This is the type of guy you want to deal with in audio. I get the impression that he is that rare breed that really understands the value of his talents and time and prices accordingly. My bet is that Kevin is doing the volume of business that he can manage well and still enjoy himself. Lucky guy.

Achilles, If you see/hear VAC gear in person it attaches itself to your brain in a way that will require you to buy it at some future point.
lewisg
6 posts
 
I have just purchased my second vac amp the phi 200 and i must agree that alot of audiophiles are totally unaware of great products that last forever and sound as good as anything money can buy.the owner of this company is a great person that will do anything to please a customer and designs his products by attending MANY live performances a WEEK so he knows what his product should sound like and they do.my last amp was a ren 30-30 and never did I do anything but turn it on and off for 16 years.try 1 folks you will be amazed
bjesien
1,283 posts
 
I owned an Avatar SE and I had the same experience as Maineiac. Called Kevin with some questions and he was on the phone within 20 seconds and seemed excited to talk about this 8 year old amp. We had a lengthy conversation led completely by him. He was in no rush and was very welcoming and enthusiastic.

At this point I need upward of 80 watts and it is a little above the budget with VAC. I think at one point I sent Maineiac an email trying to get him to sell his amp. He let me down easy.
More to discover