New VTL Stereo Amp?

Yep, although for the moment I'm evaluating a recently-acquired McCormack DNA-500 which exceeds them in several areas. Your description of the VTL vs. CJ (tube) sound is actually very similar to my take in a comparo I did a few years ago between my then-amp, a CJ MV55, and a VTL ST-85, although I have to stipulate that there was a question of relative tube condition between the two amps, and I thought the CJ did have the more neutral frequency response. What tubes are you using now?

well, had some svetlana c wing 6550, but one quad needed changing, so i just put in some new TS 6550. they're very new, breaking in. paired with mullard 12at7, they sounded too fat and round. swapped in some sieman ecc81 and they sound pretty good. hoping they open up a little more. jury is still out on that tube. i heard they had a tight defined bottom end, but altho that may be true, the bottom also feels emphasized. i'm moving in two days, so a new room will likely change all this. i'm reserving an affirmative judgment until i'm settled and have listened to them for a while. i'm generally satisfied with the sound, especially for the bucks i spent.

i gotta say, the vac 7070 was still the best amp i've had hands down. i dont think i realized what i had until i sold it. i've decided at some point the phi amp will be mine.

Have a smooth move!