VTL TL2.5 Preamp

I bought a second-hand unit in 1999. I have enjoyed the unit and have had no problems with it. With the solid metal remote, I also find the build quality outstanding for the price I paid. Although I have not replaced the stock tubes or caps, I am now interested in the positive statements of others as to these mods.

I agree with the above comments, I have one and have used it with both a VTL st85 and my Mac 252, sounds very nice with both, very nice phone stage too, just a fine value, I heard VTL prices are going up,so you may want to snag one now.

I don't think you can go wrong with the 2.5. This preamp gave me what I was looking for: large and deep soundstage, more detail and that tube quality that makes music and instruments more dimensional and life-like. I was also considering the Cary 98 at the time and tried out both in my system (ss amp and planars)and thought the 2.5 sounded better: they were both excellent but the VTL had a tubier sound, which I like. I bought mine a few years ago and later added some NOS Mullards for both the 12au7s and 12at7s. The Mullards gave it a bit more of the rich tube sound without any loss in detail.

just brought the 2.5 home, hooked up, and playing. You guys were right, thanks :)
Clarity also seems remarkable, coming from my Rotel pre-amp!

I've had the 2.5 for quite a while. I have used various solid state amps and rolled quite a few tubes in and out of the 2.5. I currently have NOS RCA Clear Tops that sound amazing with that Pre. I also own a 5.5 that I use in my main system. I have tried Tung-Sol, Mullards, JJ's, Electro Harmonix, and RCA's sound sweet to me(IMOH). I have used Parasound 2200, Aragon 8008, Conrad 2500 and McCormack DNA-1 Deluxe and DNA-225(current) SS amps, and tried VTL ST-85 and 150 tube amps. I find the DNA-225 with my Maggie 3.6's works for me in our house with rock and Jazz we like. I think you'll enjoy what you bought. Good choice. Have fun....