Tube Integrated for Von Schweikert VR4 Gen III HSE

Sherod, I don't necessarily need to stay with VAC amps. I looked at the Avatar, but in it's present configuration, I don't believe it has the stones to drive the VR4 HSE. One thing I really like about the VAC Phi is the ability to run it in triode. It has more power in ultriode, but it has more sweetness in triode.

I'm considering a McIntosh SS amp or integrated amp as an alternative.

i'd be really interested to hear your thoughts on the Mac vs. Vac... tho i have a gut feeling about how that comparison will fare

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?