VTL MB 185 SERIES II

I had the series ones.  Used for a solid 9 months before I acquired the Art Audio line as an importer.  You will want to used these in Triode.  They are not good in Tetrode.  Assuming that Triode offers enough power for you, these amps will not disappoint.  I would also guess that they do not offer autobias.  It is a giant PITA to bias them.  But that is the case with many tube amps.  

The only VTL I have heard are the large and very costly Wotans driving Genesis Speakers.  Excellent tube sound.  I am sure the trickle down effect is in most of their amps.  

the series II does have auto bias . that's why I'm looking at them. I'm a solid state guy going to tubes and want the least amount of hassle . They are 220 watts tetrode and 110 watts triode. 

In triode you will love them.  They are awesome sounding amps.  With autobias, I wouldn't hesitate as long as 110w is adequate.  

I have used VTL Amps for 20 years.  The auto biasing and fault protection is truly an awesome feature.

I own vtl  250 mono blocks for over 15 years , sound wise very good. Biasing them not that hard .  8 ,6550 tubes in each amp enough power for most speakers ,  rated at 230 watts each.

I have the MB-185 series 1.
They are incredible in tetrode in my system.

If they’re not good in your system in tetrode, you have something wrong.

It is also no problem to bias them.
If you have a multimeter & a screwdriver, it’s really simple.

would agree with @vegasears , the new auto bias VTL amps are really nice and pretty trouble free. 

Before the 450MKII were purchased I had VTL 300 Deluxe mono blocks.  Great amps but tube faults were a major pain.  With the 450's tube faults are a breeze.  When a tube goes, it's identified by a flashing little green light.  The power to the amp is shut, with gloves the tube is replaced, if a fuse went its also replaced.  I'm up and running in less the 5 minutes.  Auto Biasing between the notes of the music, come on now that's too cool.

Hi guys.  Interesting thread about VTL and tube faults.  I own a S-200 and experienced my first tube fault.  Unfortunately, the fault will not resolve by replacing the tube that indicated the fault.  I've followed the reset process to the t and it still indicates a fault with a flashing green light.   Any ideas?

You checked the fuses?

Back in the day when I had more money and less sense I did tubes..sure they are fun just like spinning and collecting  records but when it's time to get serious buy the best dac you can and the same with a great ss amp..never good to go backward if at all possible..just my opinion

Hi.  I have not.  Since the amp appeared to be powering up with the lights flashing green for each tube, I assumed that all the fuses were good.  

Hi.  I have not.  Since the amp appeared to be powering up with the lights flashing green for each tube, I assumed that all the fuses were good.