ARC VT100MkII

I owned this amp for like a year, so I'll respond where I can.

1) What is its sonic signature? Is it relaxed, laid back, forward?

I felt that this amplifier is slightly forward. In my system it did not sound relaxed or laid back, but it was also not an offensive 'forward'. I felt that this amplifier draws vocals out a little and makes them easier to hear. It had a dry-ish sounding signature in my system, and I eventually sold it because of that. I felt the (dry) sound was a sonic signature that I coudn't live long term with, even though it was quite appealing for about a month.

2) How hot does this amplifier get?

It gets fairly hot right beside it, but it won't warm your room.

3) How audible is the fan noise from about 7-8 feet away at low volume listening?

I found the fan to be audible from a listening distance of 9 feet. It never was inaudible during silence. However, once the music plays you do not hear it.

5)Any issues such as reliability aside from re-tubing?

I never had a problem, but when I sold the amplifier the next owner said a cap or something went bad and took a whole circuit board. I would guess that isn't typical.

I truly hate when someone asks about a certain piece of equipment, in your case an Audio Research VT100 mkII, and a response comes back, well have you considered a BAT, or a Cary, or conrad johnson, that being said, have you considered the ARC VS110. It obviously has the Audio Research sound, a little more power, much more user friendly and no fan noise. Unfortunately they are more expensive but I thought I would throw it out there. Now I will go and beat myself up for even suggesting an alternative.............Bob

I loved my ARC VT100Mk2. Sound was natural and warm. Would refer you to my comments in other threads as to my experience tube rolling it. Then, I liked the Svetlana power tubes; now, I would recommend using the Russian Tung-Sol 6550s. Still have the 6DJ8s if you are interested. Had good results matching the amp with both the Mirage M3s and the Talon Khorus X M2. It may be a little power shy for the N803s. May I suggest the Von Schweikert VR-4Jrs? With the proper modifications (custom spikes, 50 lbs of weight and bi-wired) they rival much more expensive speakers like the Talons. David

Bob, don't beat yourself up. Thanks for a suggestion, but if I try a tube amp it has to be a balanced design. I'm not a big fan of BAT equipment. But thanks again.

Wberdan, thanks for your comments. BTW, did you run the VT100MkII balanced or single-ended? And what was the assosiated equipment. thanks.

Mrwigglewm, thanks. Unfortunately, upgrading or changing speakers is not the plan, at least at this point in time. Sometime in the future, I may consider the VR4JRs. But thanks!

All your other issues aside, how can you consider a tube amp if heat is a concern? You can`t change the laws of physics.