VAC Signature Preamplifier Mk IIa ....

[joeinid]

VAC Signature Preamplifier Mk 2 Review - Equipment Reviews - Dagogo



A Preamp That Doesn’t Mangle The Music

Over the years, one of the reasons I have gravitated toward using the two Pathos Classic One MkIII tube hybrid integrateds as a primary amplification scheme is that it is so pristine sounding. Every preamp that I had used in my system added coloration, detracted from detail, skewed the music ever so slightly – until the Signature Preamplifier Mk 2. It is the only preamp I have used which sounds as clean and refined, but more spacious and audacious, even with mellow sounding tube amps.

This says to me that the Signature II is world-class in terms of shaping the music without distorting the music. Isn’t that what the perfect preamp is supposed to do, to influence the signal without calling attention to the fact that it is influencing it? This is the only preamp I have used, bar none, which does not in some manner mangle the music by reducing dynamics, veiling detail, portraying a compressed soundstage, or sounding flat. I can see, or shall I say hear, clearly why Kevin Hayes prefers to refer to his creations as instruments as opposed to components. The level of refinement is extreme. The Signature Preamplifier Mk 2 is suitable for the most exquisite of audio systems, and thus is recommended without reservation!

[MDP]

Originally Posted by mbovaird

Joe - I assume you have seen this great review? Valve Amplification Company Signature IIa Preamplifier | The Absolute Sound

They're made here in Sarasota, FL. Want me to drive over and inspect it for you? Perhaps you want me to bring it home and test it for you - JUST in case - just to be sure it works and everything?

Mike

Joe, I don't know how Mike is going to test it, he doesn't even have any speakers.

Congrats Joe, I've always wanted to hear VAC gear, can't wait for yoe impressions.

Mark

[mbovaird]

Originally Posted by MDP

Joe, I don't know how Mike is going to test it, he doesn't even have any speakers.

Congrats Joe, I've always wanted to hear VAC gear, can't wait for yoe impressions.

Mark

Ouch. Good point. We shall see what tomorrow brings however.

[joeinid]

Originally Posted by MDP

Joe, I don't know how Mike is going to test it, he doesn't even have any speakers.

Congrats Joe, I've always wanted to hear VAC gear, can't wait for yoe impressions.

Mark

Thanks Mark. I appreciate it.

Originally Posted by mbovaird

Ouch. Good point. We shall see what tomorrow brings however.

Ouch is right. I think Mike has something up his sleeve.

[vintage_tube]

Joe,

Once you have had your preamp for awhile, look into replacing the stock Chinese E88CC's with some Premium Quality Amperex 7308's or 6922's (AKA Amperex 7308PQ or 6922PQ). Of the 4 twin triodes these are the ones to play with in the tube rolling scheme of things.

Those PQ Amperex are expensive but offer more top end delicacy not found in the Chinese tubes.

There is also a switch located inside the preamp that allows you to try other twin triodes as well -- such as EC88's, 6DJ8's, and 12DJ8; but, I'd recommend hunting for the PQ's I mentioned only & save some fun for the music.

Best

Bob

The other two are 12AU7's and can remain as factory inserted.

[joeinid]

Originally Posted by vintage_tube

Joe,

Once you have had your preamp for awhile, look into replacing the stock Chinese E88CC's with some Premium Quality Amperex 7308's or 6922's (AKA Amperex 7308PQ or 6922PQ). Of the 4 twin triodes these are the ones to play with in the tube rolling scheme of things.

Those PQ Amperex are expensive but offer more top end delicacy not found in the Chinese tubes.

There is also a switch located inside the preamp that allows you to try other twin triodes as well -- such as EC88's, 6DJ8's, and 12DJ8; but, I'd recommend hunting for the PQ's I mentioned only & save some fun for the music.

Best

Bob

The other two are 12AU7's and can remain as factory inserted.

Bob,

Thank you for the heads up and tube recommendations. I very much appreciate it. I noticed the switch in a review photo. I am sure I'll have some questions as I go along.

[vintage_tube]

Originally Posted by joeinid

Bob,

Thank you for the heads up and tube recommendations. I very much appreciate it. I noticed the switch in a review photo. I am sure I'll have some questions as I go along.

No problem Joe and glad to help especially with the VAC line -- one preamp I seriously considered then Ms. Paganini butted in line.

Best

Bob

[Whart]

Joe: this was on my very short list of line stages to listen to in my system. Did you order it with the built-in phono stage or are you using it with an outboard phono pre? (From what I can tell, you seem to like moving through equipment). I agree about the flexibility of tube rolling on this unit, and it can help you voice the piece to the sonic signature that you are after.
I just got the Veloce line stage in my system-- the newest version that uses the 6H30 (i had Veloce install the DR version of the tube). It is very good, very quiet (essential on my horns) and has amazing dynamic range, notwithstanding its reliance on batteries. It also sounds quite different than the first version, which I had in my system briefly. Good luck with the VAC- I gather that his big tube amps are the ticket, too and in meeting and speaking with Kevin, thought he was a real straight-shooter.

[joeinid]

Good luck with the Veloce. I had been looking at that a while ago. I am glad the newest version is sounding wonderful.

I ordered the VAC Sig IIa line stage only. I am not into TT's. I have cycled through some gear, but I have found a few pieces that I love. First of all, my favorite piece, bar none, is my Dartzeel 108 amp. It is just a wonderful amp that pushes my buttons. I really do not have to look any further. I loved it with the GAT and do miss that preamp. I have a feeling that the VAC will surpass the GAT in my situation. I can not wait to hear it with my Burmester 911's. While I really like the 911's, I prefer my Dartzeel 108. If the VAC gives me what I want on the 911's, I am all set and have different flavors of gear to play as the mood strikes. If not, the 911's are going to be sold. The Dartzeel 108 with the VAC will be my main amp/preamp on the TADs. The VAC will play nice with a variety of amps, now and in the future.

Speaking of battery power preamps, the Dartzeel 18NS is on my mind but not a priority at the moment.

I do have a desire to try a pair of MC2301's. I do miss a great tube amp sometimes. Some of the VAC amps do look sweet, but I think the MC2301's will be fun, reliable and awesome on my TADs.

Originally Posted by Whart

Joe: this was on my very short list of line stages to listen to in my system. Did you order it with the built-in phono stage or are you using it with an outboard phono pre? (From what I can tell, you seem to like moving through equipment). I agree about the flexibility of tube rolling on this unit, and it can help you voice the piece to the sonic signature that you are after.
I just got the Veloce line stage in my system-- the newest version that uses the 6H30 (i had Veloce install the DR version of the tube). It is very good, very quiet (essential on my horns) and has amazing dynamic range, notwithstanding its reliance on batteries. It also sounds quite different than the first version, which I had in my system briefly. Good luck with the VAC- I gather that his big tube amps are the ticket, too and in meeting and speaking with Kevin, thought he was a real straight-shooter.

[Whart]

Interesting combinations. I suspect, and this is pure speculation on my part, that the VAC may have more tube 'warmth' than the GAT in combo with the Burmester amps. What speakers are you running?