I have not heard the LS25, but the difference between a VT100 amp and a REF150 should be considerable. The REF 150 is far more neutral without the 'silvery' cast of the VT100. Assuming the REF150 has reasonable fresh tubes in it, then something upstream is holding it back if you perceive little difference between the two amps.
ARC is definitely further along in the 21st Century. Their combination of the 6H30 with FETs in wholly new circuit designs are found throughout all Reference line-stages starting with the REF 5 and, I believe, the REF 110 amplifier. Some companies struggled with implementation of the 6H30 but ARC got it right. Your REF 150 will find an easy synergy with a line stage such as the REF 5 or 5SE.
|