I loved my ARC VT100Mk2. Sound was natural and warm. Would refer you to my comments in other threads as to my experience tube rolling it. Then, I liked the Svetlana power tubes; now, I would recommend using the Russian Tung-Sol 6550s. Still have the 6DJ8s if you are interested. Had good results matching the amp with both the Mirage M3s and the Talon Khorus X M2. It may be a little power shy for the N803s. May I suggest the Von Schweikert VR-4Jrs? With the proper modifications (custom spikes, 50 lbs of weight and bi-wired) they rival much more expensive speakers like the Talons. David
ARC VT100MkII
I'd appreciate if any of the VT100MkII owners can share their thoughts about this amp.
I am considering this amplifier.
It will be run via balanced cables with the rest of my ARC components - LS-25MkI preamp and CD3MkII cd player.
Cabling is Acoustic Zen Silver RefII from CD3MkII to LS-25 and Matrix RefII from LS-25 to amp. Speaker cables are Acoustic Zen Satori Shotgun.
Questions I have about the VT100MkII amp:
1) What is its sonic signature? Is it relaxed, laid back, forward?
2) How hot does this amplifier get?
3) How audible is the fan noise from about 7-8 feet away at low volume listening?
4) Will it manage to drive my B&W N803 speakers?
5)Any issues such as reliability aside from re-tubing?
I listen mostly to rock, blues, jazz and some classical. I like natural, dynamic presentation, but not harsh, analytical or forward sounding. Imaging and soundstaging is important. Good bass is a MUST.
I have listened to this amplifier before and the only think I remember is that I really liked it but it was long time ago and it was driving speakers that are easier on amplifiers than my N803s are.
Thanks very much for your thoughts!
I am considering this amplifier.
It will be run via balanced cables with the rest of my ARC components - LS-25MkI preamp and CD3MkII cd player.
Cabling is Acoustic Zen Silver RefII from CD3MkII to LS-25 and Matrix RefII from LS-25 to amp. Speaker cables are Acoustic Zen Satori Shotgun.
Questions I have about the VT100MkII amp:
1) What is its sonic signature? Is it relaxed, laid back, forward?
2) How hot does this amplifier get?
3) How audible is the fan noise from about 7-8 feet away at low volume listening?
4) Will it manage to drive my B&W N803 speakers?
5)Any issues such as reliability aside from re-tubing?
I listen mostly to rock, blues, jazz and some classical. I like natural, dynamic presentation, but not harsh, analytical or forward sounding. Imaging and soundstaging is important. Good bass is a MUST.
I have listened to this amplifier before and the only think I remember is that I really liked it but it was long time ago and it was driving speakers that are easier on amplifiers than my N803s are.
Thanks very much for your thoughts!