I finally upgraded my Channel Island Audio VMB-1 monoblocks (40 watt chip amps) with a pair of the original D-100 from Agon. So I save a boatload of money from the D-200 Mk II that I really wanted, but am still a generation behind.
I run single driver speakers (that chip amps are known to really synergize with), but these aren't your ordinary wide range drivers (90 dB/w/m, 8 ohm, 27 watts continous/80 watts peak). OTOH they are supposed to thrive with more power (like many good drivers). So I held off upsizing until I found the right price.
And like Dusty has stated, the D-100 seems to be all around better than the VMB-1. Better resolution, images more focused, strings have much more bite, and of course an additional 4 dB of gain (which seems to provide better control so I can play louder). And the extra beef makes my speakers sound like I've got a properly setup sub - that only makes its presence noticed when needed. I also like that the soundstage seems set back further as I listen nearfield. In comparison the VMB-1 is less athletic in general. And a good sign, when I first listened, I kept turning the volume up (enjoying the sound with no negatives to be heard).
The VMB-1s are worth more to me as backups (maybe for my living room system) than I could probably sell them for, so I'm not planning on selling them. BTW I bought them used too, and for just a smidge less than the D-100s!
Questions for Dusty: Can you tell which production run these are (I know there was a cap change and maybe some other tweaks along the way)? If they are 26 or 32 dB gain versions? Can I get an owner's manual? TIA
