To Preamp Or Not To Preamp Vac 30/30 MkII

Great amp.... I loved my time with it and regret having sold it. I had the MkIII version and preferred it with a preamp. I used an Aesthetix Calypso (non signature version) with NOS tubes. The two made a great combo. The Calypso can be found used for around $2,500 (add $500 for good NOS tubes).

As far as IC cables, KCI Silkworms are a great value on the used market for around $750, but they are rarely available. Even new, they are a good deal. I also use Jade Audio Hybrid IC's... a bit pricier than the Silkworms, but they do become available used every now and then for around $1,000. I've heard from other respected audiophiles that Jade Audio's Vermiel speaker cables are quite good... but they are very pricey new and are rarely available on the used market.

I've also heard a lot of great things about Ocellia (sp?) cables. I think an IC just showed up in the classifieds today.

Good luck.

If you decide to use a preamp, you will need to get something really good if you want to make an improvement. I have similar equipment equipment so I may be able to give you some general ideas. Your 860 should be a very good match without using a preamp. I have an 861SE myself, that I currently use in my main system but I do have a 30/30 Mk3 and have used them both together. I feel it is an excellent combination. I haven't heard a Mk2, but I can't imagine it being all that different from the one I have.

For myself, I prefer a preamp. The Wadia, however, is good enough that you can still get great sound without it. That's why I say you will need to get a really good one. Another option may be to upgrade you 860 to an 861 or an 861SE (If Wadia is still in business). I would stay away from cables right now because you are not done with your system and your components are very good, all around, performers. Nothing needs to be fixed. You just need them to transfer signal, so whatever you decide to do in the future, cables should be easy.

I you were to ask me what should you do first, I would recommend you demo a new preamp. A preamp will probably make the biggest change in sound quality (good or bad). However, I wouldn't even consider buying one without trying it in your system first.

Endoit,
You have an excellent amplifier (also I really like the 70/70 version).This
level of amplifier deserves top shelf preamp, then lookout! As you know
there are two camps, direct source vs preamp added.I side with using a
quaility active preamp for maximum sound realization. In your price range I
would suggest that you consider the Coincident Statement linestage.It will
mate beautifully with your high caliber VAC 300b based amplifier. I believe
you'd have world class sound for very reasonable money.The CSL is
exceptionally natural, transparent, nuanced and dynanmic just a good
match into your system. Pdreher is right about the Ocellia cables, they are
fabulous and utterly natural in character. Well that's my 2 cents worth.Best
of luck to you.
Regards,

Thanks so much for your input. I find that Wadia works great at moderate to loud sound levels on the volume control i.e level 20-55 straight into the VAC. At low levels 8-20 I seem to loose dynamics, debth, seperation etc. When I use the Wadia at level 100 with a moderately priced integrated tube amp using amps volume control sound improves at low levels. Any thoughts on whether Wadia just works best set at the highest level?