2. amps-preamps
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VAC Owners:Outboard Phono Stage?

I'm contemplating my next upgrade. Thought you guys could help.

I spin mostly vinyl. I have a great analogue front end that feeds a VAC Standard LE pre and VAC PHI 200 amp, both of which I love. The MC stage on the pre is really good, but a little noisy (hiss). Kevin is sending me new 12AX7s that Brent will test for very low noise at the VACtory. Those guys just rock!

My question, however, is how much do I need to spend on an outboard MC phono stage if I want a significant upgrade to the already wonderful sound of the built-in stage?

I know, why don't I just enjoy the wonderful sound? Because it's upgrade time, baby! There will always be a next level (we really need a 12 step group for this hobby).

I'm looking at the Zesto Andros ($3900), the Herron VTPH-2 ($3700), and possibly the new Manley Chinook ($2200).

Ideally, I could audition these in my system, but the nearest dealer is far away, so I'll have to order one.

Any thoughts are welcome. Thanks,
Alón (no, not Wolf)
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alonski OP
158 posts
 
fPlanner: "Huge difference and afterwards had a hard time believing I had been perfectly happy with just 1" Yeah, I know that feeling. I'm leaning towards getting another Phi 200 and then, maybe, explore upgrading the Caps in my VAC preamp.

Has anyone done any Cap Rolling (is that a term or did I just coin it?) with their VAC pre? I've heard amazing stories about sound improvement by swapping stock output caps with teflon/copper V-caps... anyone with experience doing this?

Podeschi: "And his service is second to none in my book" No doubt Kevin is an audio community hero. One of the few true gentlemen I have met in the high-end world.
jwm
918 posts
 
I have the VAC 2a preamp which is direct coupled input to output. I don't have to worry about changing capacitors because there are no capacitors.
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alonski OP
158 posts
 
Hey JWM,

OK, now you're just showing off!

Just in case you ever upgrade from your 2A (frankly, at this time I don't know what you could upgrade to), drop me a line if you'd want to part with it. I'm pretty sure it's the best preamp I've ever heard. Keep me in mind.

Cheers,
Alón
jwm
918 posts
 
Alon, I agree with you. I had many other preamps before. I had the CAT, First Sound, Conrad Johnson, Audio Research Ref 2 Mark 2, VTL 7.5, Reference Line. None of these could touch the VAC. My friend has the Coincident line stage that competes with mine, other than that I have not heard it yet.
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alonski OP
158 posts
 
UPDATE:
Well folks, I spent a lot of time with the VAC Sig mk2a flagship preamp at two recent highend shows... and now it's the end of november and I still can't get its unbelievable sound out of my head... So today, (drum roll, please) I bought one! I spoke with Kevin and he said It'll take a few weeks to get it to me because I'm getting the optional phono stage and they're back logged with orders... But I did it! It's coming! I will finally be able to A/B my SUT with the MC phono stage in the top of the line VAC, which, did I mention, I bought earlier today!? Can you tell I'm excited?

Thank you all for your guidance, ideas and shared experiences as I explored my options. This is the most I've ever spent on a single component and somehow, I feel calm about it... I even told my wife and she was supportive and gave me a congratulatory hug! Boy, talk about a guy getting lucky... I could be the poster child for "Lucky", standing next to my awesome wife sporting that incredulous goofy grin that I've worn since the day she said "yes!"

As soon as I get this baby in my system I'll post my initial impressions. Those of you who have the Sig2a with phono, how long did it take to burn in?
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