Cheaper substitute for VAC Avatar?


Hi,

I owned a VAC Avatar for several years, but had to sell it 3 years ago due to medical/financial issues. With sufficiently efficient speakers - meaning at least 89/90 db. and an easy load, such as larger Spendors or Reference 3A -- the standard Avatar in triode was really great. I'd love to pick up another one, but my budget hasn't fully recovered sufficient to afford it, even at current used prices. Any advice on current or used budget gear that might come reasonably close? I especially liked the VAC with 60s & 70s hard/bop jazz, older classic rock and blues vinyl - great inner dynamic contrasts. Thanks,

TLH
tlh28

Showing 3 responses by pubul57

Would you consider something like a completely newly built version of the Dynaco ST70 built by Bob Latino or Will Vincent? I think they sell for $845 or so with EL34s and are said to be a significant improvement in the bass compared with the original with a classic tube midrange. While the same basic design, they are upgraded with modern parts and improved specs on the parts. Seems well built for the money and does provide that EL34 magic in the midrange.
If you don't like warmth, forget the Dynaco - it tend to have a classic tube sound though less so in the rebuilds.