Tube Integrated for Von Schweikert VR4 Gen III HSE


Hello. I'd like some input from anyone using a tubed integrated amp with Von Schweikert VR4 Gen III HSE loudspeakers.

Considering a KT88 based integrated, but I'm also open to SS suggestions.

I'd like to hear from real world users.

Thanks in advance.
tvad
Hey Grant, how about this beauty? I know it's tubed, but man!

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?intatube&1149247597

Hello Sherod and Steve my old friends!
yo dean! you're right about that mac, it's sweeet looking. who knows what it sounds like tho... :)

Grant, have you done a search on Von Schweikert in the threads? I'm also curious what other VS speaker owners use for amplification. Needing lots of reserve power might be difficult in finding the right integrated. Do you have any close by dealers who might loan you something to demo in your own system? I'm also wondering if going to a SS integrated will satisfy you after getting spoiled on the Phi 110 tube sound. Are you getting tired of tubes in general?
Yes.

I would rather not ask a local dealer for a demo as I have no intention of buying new.

No.
Hey Grant,
I respect your respecting the dealers. Very honorable. That's why we have Audiogon to buy used, right? Have you narrowed down your choice of integrateds yet? I just shared another e-mail with Kevin Hayes at VAC. He has been amazing with his prompt replies to my questions. He told me that his new VAC Auricle Musiblocs I just bought have essentially the same amplifier circuitry as the Avatar Super integrated. I got a gut feeling that he's about to introduce an all new Avatar. Have you considered maybe changing to speakers that might not be so power hungry? It might give you a better choice of integrateds. I just bought Joseph Chow's new preamplifier and I'm chomping on the bit in anticipation. I also recently bought his Premium power cord($195.00) and it's been one of those "Oh..my.. God" jaw-dropping experiences.