2. amps-preamps
  3. 1259983056

SS Amp to replace VAC 300.1 in a side-ways move?

I've owned several very nice high-end solid state amplifiers. But, nothing has given me the same musical enjoyment as my VAC-300.1, which is a tube design.

I may be making some changes in my home, in which a tube amp will no longer be very practical.

Now being so hooked on that VAC tube "magic," I am concerned that I just will not be as satisfied, if I go back to a solid state amp.

I am not necessarily looking for a big list of SS amp recommendations to check out. More specifically, I am looking to hear from folks who have gone from the 300.1 (or similar class of tube amp, VTL, etc) to a solid state amp, AND BEEN HAPPY WITH THEIR SS SELECTION, over the long-haul.

Is there a solid state power amp that truely has the magic of a tube amplifier?

Thanks.
barrelchief
coxhaus
231 posts
 
What about the Joule Electra/ Spectron combo. I went from a tube power amp to the Spectron with Vcaps and ByBee filters. I am going on 3 weeks and I am very happy with the change.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
The problem with the 150wpc VAC 300.1 and the 90dB sensitive Aerial 9 speakers becomes running out of power during dynamic peaks *if* you listen at levels that approach live.

For example, the VAC 300.1 will run out of steam at about 111dB peaks (measured 1 meter from the drivers).

So, if you listen at around 84dB measured from your listen seat, then you will have enough power for 105dB peaks.

Use this as a guide and determine if it will be sufficient based on your room and listening preferences.

I have a small to medium sized room and I listen at about 8 feet from the drivers. I often listen at nominal levels above 90dB, so the VAC 300.1 with Aerial 9 speakers may not quite get the job done to suit me.
shredder's avatar
shredder
93 posts
 
Thanks Tvad, very helpful.
sutts
668 posts
 
agree with Tvad- having owned Aerial speakers many years ago, solid state worked best...
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