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Audio Research VS115 and VT100 Questions ?

I've owned a VT100 for 10 years, and it needs new tubes (or an upgrade.) The tubes have not failed, and it still works, but I saw and smelt smoke comming off of one of the boards.
(I was pushing it real hard into Sound Labs using a Wadia CD player with no preamp (just the volume on the Wadia)

I'm considering buying the VS115. The AR dealer near me is somewhat new to the brand and doesn't know much yet.

Does the VS115 amp require a 20amp plug in the wall?
What if I don't have a 20 amp recepticle? Can I use a cheater?

Does AR still offer upgrades to the VT100?
(I know I sould call them)

I like the box design of the VT series better than the open plate layout of the VS series. Should I just buy a new amp and forget about the VT100?
6550c
6 responses Add your response
monoogan
55 posts
 
In answer to the plug question. The amp end is 20 amp but the wall end is a regular 3 prong plug.

I replaced my VT100 with a used Ref110. An option to consider...
richardp01
28 posts
 
I've started a new thread,  see "Audio Research VT100 Mk1."
efner's avatar
efner
99 posts
 
The VS 115 is far better than any of the VT100series amps.
It gives the ref110 a run for it's money!
christianlam
1 posts
 
Hi there,

not sure what you are looking for in the amp, but ARC amps never promises to sound tubey or warm. they aim to be accurate and natural and that's exactly what the VS115 to me.

I've A/B it against the REF210 and despite the shortfall in power, it actually managed to hold its own against an amp priced 3 times over.

at end of day, really depends on the rest of your system make up for I'm a big believer in synergy.

yes, the VS115 uses a 20amp cord but I don't think it needs a 20amp recepticle
samhar
1,048 posts
 
I had the VS 115 and felt it was "thin and forward" sounding not at all tube like, more like SS!!! I kept it for 500 hrs waiting for a magical transformation, nothing changed so I sold it. What you have is a nice sounding amp why not repair it and keep it as a MK1 or at most a MK2!!!!!! You've enjoyed it for ten years why not ten more!!!
coxhaus
231 posts
 
I would repair what you have. Which version do you have? I have listened to the mark I and mark II. I had a lot of enjoyable hours listening with those amps. I have never heard the VS115. Even if you decide to sell the amp it is better to sell a working amp.
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