I am awaiting delivery next week of a Phi 200. I would agree with Charles1dad in his description of the VAC sound vs. the ARC sound, and my preference also lies with the VAC (as in the past it has gone with Jadis and Lamm tube amps over more high-resolution designs). If you like the ARC sound, though, you certainly can't go wrong, it's a fine product as well--since you'll hear it you'll be able to see if that sound suits your tastes. My recollection of the Lectron (and it's a fond recollection, that was a sweet amplifier) is that it favored the beauty of music and the midrange magic over getting the last bit of detail; if that's your preference I think you'll like the VAC. I also think the VAC will give you a bit more bass extension and dynamic power than what you're used to.
Vac Phi 200 vs. Audio Research Reference 75
Hello all,
My Lectron JH-50 (EL-34 tube amp) may be dying and if I have to replace it, VAC Phi 200 and Audio Research Reference 75 will be at the top of my list. I plan to check the Reference 75, but I have no ways of getting even close to Phi 200. The speakers are Pro Ac Response 3.8, the pre-amps are Klyne 7 and NAT Audio Plasma. I listen to everything but hip hop and modern country music. Acoustic guitar, piano, violin, woodwinds, and voices are my favorite instruments. I do play Black Sabbath once in awhile (and I am going to get their new CD). Please, reply if you have heard both of them or anything else that should be in the competition.
Thanks to everyone who replies.
My Lectron JH-50 (EL-34 tube amp) may be dying and if I have to replace it, VAC Phi 200 and Audio Research Reference 75 will be at the top of my list. I plan to check the Reference 75, but I have no ways of getting even close to Phi 200. The speakers are Pro Ac Response 3.8, the pre-amps are Klyne 7 and NAT Audio Plasma. I listen to everything but hip hop and modern country music. Acoustic guitar, piano, violin, woodwinds, and voices are my favorite instruments. I do play Black Sabbath once in awhile (and I am going to get their new CD). Please, reply if you have heard both of them or anything else that should be in the competition.
Thanks to everyone who replies.