I'd suggest one of the newer VAC integrateds, since you like the company sound. They use KT88s, though, so it might not be quite as lush as the Avatar, as I recall its sound. I'm not sure how you want to "better" the sound, though--do you want more high frequency extension, tighter, deeper bass, etc.?
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the avatar is a great integrated from a time when Vacs gear was much more affordable one of our best integrated amplifiers is the synthesis a 100 it is a similar sound to the avatar via kt66 tubes under 12k vs 16k for the vac 170 it is also more powerful at 100 wats vs 85 andd has a great built in dac. in addition to sounding great it has a fantastic built in Dac the dac is based on their separate 3k dac so all you need is a digital transport and a set of loudspeakers. https://www.hifinews.com/content/synthesis-action-a100-titan-integrated-amplifier Dave and Troy Audio intellect NJ Synthesis dealers. |
I certainly wouldn't want to change the basic character of the sound. I would not call it lush really but it is quite warm, natural and inviting. What I might want to add to it could be more resolution, a bit more precision, high frequency extension and power. However, it is quite good as it is. I use 12AX7 Mullard long plates in preamp, 12AU7 RCA black plates in the driver slot and SED 'Winged' EL34 tubes. Same Mullards for the phono stage. |
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