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Used VAC Super? Moscode 401orBelles Reference 350?

I was recently at CES and i had a chance to hear the VAC phi amps and was absolutely floored from what i heard. Although i didnt get around to hearing all rooms the VAC/Wadia/Talon Thunderhawk room was amazing. There was somthing special about that set up. I'm not in the league to spend 20k on amps but if i had the money the Phi amps would certainly be on my short list and i never considered even buying a tube amp in the past. I just like the sound and character of the breath of life VAC puts out. Is anyone familiar with the sound of the VAC Super integrated compared to a new Moscode 401 or the Belles Reference 350 and even the TRL 225 D? I will be narrowing it down to these amps. One will end up in the system im going to be building.

Your feedback is highly appreciated.
Chaz
chaz801
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I saw the phi beta at a dealer when I was looking for a turntable last year and didn't even want to hear it for fear that my heart would lust for something that I am not likely to get for a LONG time. The choice of tubes greatly changes the sound.
Maineiac (System | Threads | Answers)
My experience with the VAC Phi 110/110 was that tube rolling did not make an appreciable difference in the sound of the amplifier, and the stock VAC tubes were my preference after having tried several well regarded 6SN7 and KT88 variants including 1969 Genelex Gold Monarch.

Perhaps tube rolling in the VAC Avatar Super has a more definite effect.
chaz801's avatar
chaz801 OP
77 posts
 
I should have followed your course of action because i did in fact hear the Phi mono blocks. And unless i mortgage my home or hit the six numbers..i wont have one anytime soon.
sherod
1,681 posts
 
I have the VAC Musicblocs. The owner and designer at VAC, Kevin Hayes, told me that the VAC Avatar Super and my Musicblocs have virtually the same circuitry. I much preferred the VAC factory tubes to many different( some expensive NOS) tubes. So consider that if you go with the VAC Super integrated. By the way, I'm very content with my VAC Musicblocs. When the budget allows, I hope to upgrade in the VAC line.
maineiac
649 posts
 
Chaz 801, Keep in mind that Kevin has indicated that he may build another version of the AVATAR integrated amp. I think it will be near $10K, but I can't remember if that figure came from him or from someone in an online forum. It might be worth talking to Kevin to see what the status is on that project. Also, maybe try to find someone using one that lives near you for an audition.
chaz801's avatar
chaz801 OP
77 posts
 
Thanks Maineiac
I have talked to kevin also and he did mention great things ahead for the new avatar. He wasnt sure when exactly it would be introduced. He mentioned if all goes well, it could be near Q4 of this year. I will be patient and keep my eyes opened for a used avatar super. I have to buy a complete system from the ground up and my budget for everything is 10k to 15k tops.

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