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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
lrsky OP
1,118 posts
 
Mribob,
The allure of tube rolling is a force, the temptation great. One can almost change, with a new tube, the overall sound presentation of their preamp. However, if the manual states, 'do NOT'--before considering a change, I'd want to personally talk to Kevin Hayes and find out what, if any effect it would have on the warrany...and moreover why he's opposed to doing so. Knowing Kevin, there are likely, very valid reasons for him opposing the change.
It won't hurt to ask, and at worst you're 'stuck' with the great sound you already know.

Mribob, don't you just love the voicing of VAC?

Good listening,
Larry
swampwalker's avatar
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swampwalker
5,132 posts
 
Its easy to understand why things might occasionally fall through the cracks from the service side for about 6 weeks prior to and 4 after a major show like CES. This is not a criticism of VAC - its just common sense. I would think most people would realize this, but maybe not.

I agree completely. This goes part and parcel w owning an "artisanal" product like this. There is, IMO a huge difference between this and the "bumps in the road" that one usually encounters in dealing w a "garage shop" operation. VAC has certainly stood the test of time in terms of quality, reliability, and accessibility. A wise man (or maybe woman) once said "Good oats are expensive. If you can be happy w oats that have already been thru the horse once, they are a lot less expensive."
knghifi
1,667 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.
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