EXPERIENCED VAC USERS—most bang for the buck


To those of you who have experience with the VAC line, which combination of components do you think would provide the best sound? The Phi 300.1a amp combined with the Renaissance MkIII preamp, or the Phi 200 amp with the Signature MkIIa preamp?

Beyond the obvious difference in amp power, we're more interested in the quality of sound. So is there more of an improvement in sound going up from one amp to the other, or going up from one preamp to the other?

We have a limit on the client's budget for whom we're providing the system (which is why we can't combine the 300.1a with the Sig MkIIa), and, most unfortunately, we're not in a position to be able to audition the differences ourselves prior to providing the system to our client. Thanks for any input.
liszt458
I'd choose the Signature 2a with the Phi 200. Then, if funds permit later you client could add another Phi 200 and run mono. That's what I am running and couldn't be happier. Someday if funds permit I may move to the Statement stereo but no desire to now.
Sticking with the original question and the limitations/condition stipulated,if the speakers are efficient and don`t require the additional power I`d go with Phi 200 amp and the Signature preamp.Again this assumes there`s no possibility for an audition.
It really depends on the speaker. Having the correct power matchup for the efficiency of the speaker good be the big factor hear. Why don't you call Kevin at Vac in Florida? They are very honest and helpful guys.
Alan
I agree with Bill and Alan, the best resource to answer this question is Kevin Hayes at VAC. Give him a call, he is honest and very helpful.

Cheers,
John
Thanks everyone for the helpful responses. I see some of you have your own great VAC systems, so I appreciate all the insight.