Audio Research VT100 Mk1, Mk3; VS115

Richard, 

I used to own the VS115.  It was a fine amp.  I can't say how the VT100 model compares to the VS 115.  But I suggest you call Evan at ARC and get his sense of the comparison between the two models.  Just a footnote , ...  Evan is somewhat new to ARC.  He replaces Kal who replaced Lenard. So if he doesn't know, Warren Gehl might be able to weigh in.  Warren is the ears of ARC.   

Here's another thought, …. ask Evan if ARC is still mod'ing the VT 100 Mk I version to upgraded versions of the amp.  It may be a cost effective way to move up.

Good luck.

BIF

P.S. I never thought the VS 115 sounded solid state'ish.       

Rich, … I think Jim is giving you good advice.  I would like to reiterate what I posted.  Call ARC and talk to Evan.  Ask him what the best course of action is.  If Jim's assessment is correct, this is not a do-it-your-self'er.  

I can't make the economic call for you about whether you should movie up to the VS-115, but if your VT 100 MK I is long in the tooth and needs a retube (and possibly other work), I would call Evan and ask him if this is something you should attempt.  

If Evan tells you that retubing the VT 100 is like doing brain surgery on yourself, then an old Yoga Bera'ism comes to mind, "when you come to a fork in the road, take it."  Either send the VT 100 back to ARC (or an ARC authorized service station) or swap it for something else.

Been there and done it with many ARC products, including the VS 100, the VS-115, the Ref 150 SE and so forth.  ARC customer service is first rate.

BIF