[f575m]

Hi,

I was offered a Valve Amplification Company (VAC) "Vintage" preamplifier MKIII but I cannot find reviews regarding this preamplifier. The company will service it, new caps and resistors for less than $300. It is a large preamplifier. As you all well know VAC makes highly regarded and ultra expensive components but I have not idea how it sounds, there is no chance to listen to it.

[Elizabeth]

DO NOT BUY IT.  Send me the name of the person selling so I can buy it instead 
please, you will really hate it, but I, being a complete fool, will like it. 




(actually grab it immediately. the one downside is the repair may take a bit longer than you would like. but it will be really really worth it when you listen after you get it back. I own a VAC Standard)

[JakeJ]

Another VAC owner here (CPA 1 MkIII with all the upgrades offered) and I'll second Elizabeth's recommendation.  Buy it, you will love it.  Especially after you send it in and get it brought up to spec.

[f575m]

Thanks for the info. It looks like an old model, I couldn't find any reviews or comments.

My first choice would have been a Shindo but the owner changed his mind, hard to find and expensive but the sound... There are a few at Buyee Jp. auctions in Japan but it is risky, no warranties of any kind.

I was touched by Kevin's message, that he considers it an honor that I am considering the VAC Vintage for my ultimate system.

He said that generally not much goes wrong with these, and it is exceedingly rare for one to come in for repair. The most common problem is the output coupling capacitors of the Mk III version, and there might be a handful of resistors that we would recommend replacing; he would expect it all to be under $300 plus shipping, including full testing and audition. Valves and cosmetic issues are not included in this discussion.

It maybe be a fine complement to my Berning ZH-230.

Cheers,

Horacio

[kmmd]

I love my VAC Signature Mk IIa SE and yes, Kevin is a class act.  Invest in good tubes, and you will be rewarded.

Happy listening Horacio.

Ken

Edit:  oops tubes not tunes.  Darn spell check