Stereo and Monoblock Power Amplifier
VAC’s smallest power amplifier yields fidelity sound far superior to any of our previous award-winning instruments. Through careful voicing and quality control, the “jump” factor of the sound suggests far more than the measured 100+ watts per channel.
The basic circuit of Phi 200 is a simplified take on the topology employed in the Statement products. Both fully balanced and single-ended input modes are supported; by switch setting, the front-end circuitry is rearranged to be correct and optimal for the selected mode.
Another switch converts the Phi 200 from a 100+ watt/channel stereo operation into a true 200+ watt monoblock with great power and control. The ability to set the amplifier for either stereo or mono operation allows freedom of application (biamp one day, monoblocks the next), and the ability to pace the development of a system. You can start with one Phi 200 in stereo mode today and add a second one later for additional power and true monoblock performance.
The Phi 200’s wideband power is developed using KT88 beam power vacuum tubes, exploited to fullest advantage by 14-pound, custom-wound, 21-section output transformers. With Class A1 direct-coupled low-mu triode input and driver stages, the result is fast, full, detailed sound.
Discreet amber indicators direct adjustment of the output tubes for ideal sound. The lacquered 9.5 mm fascia beautifully compliments the rugged 2.4 mm non-magnetic chassis. The massive power transformer is fully potted to assure quiet operation. A 12-volt trigger input is accepted.
An optional glass/machined aluminum cage is available, for an appearance reminiscent of a Statement amplifier.
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Wattage
100+ stereo into 2, 4, and 8 ohms
200+ mono modeGain
37 dB, SE
31 dB, balanced
Frequency Response
4 Hz to 75 kHz
Power Bandwidth
13 Hz to 70 kHz
Inputs
Single-ended input via RCA jack, non-inverting
XLR balancedOutputs
Connections to precisely match loudspeaker loads of 2, 4, and 8 ohms
Tubes
4x KT88
4x 6SN7
Residual Noise
Typically, 700 microvolts at the speaker terminals
Voltage
May be factory configured for operation at 100, 120, 220, or 230/240 volts
Power Cord
Detachable power cord, standard IEC power receptacle
12-Volt Trigger
included
Illumination
Illuminated logo may be switched off
Finish
Hand-rubbed gold-flake gloss black lacquer with chrome knobs standard.
Hand-rubbed metallic gloss silver lacquer with chrome knobs special order with additional cost.
Warranty
Two years parts and labor, excluding tubes (USA, see manual for full details)
Dimensions (H x W x D)
Audio chassis (not including knobs and connectors): 8.75 x 17.8 x 17.8 in. (22.2 x 45.2 x 45.2 cm.)
Shipping Weight
90 lbs. (40.9 kg.)
*Specifications subject to change without notice.
"They have bass command that is up there with the best solid state amplifiers I’ve experienced, along with the liquidity, transparency and beauty associated with the very best valve amplifiers. It leaves me many yards closer to the goal of live music making recreated, and they are a “must hear” for anyone searching for the ultimate in valve amplifiers."
Rafael Todes, reviewer and musician, HiFi World, September 2013 - Full Review
“Select Audio Component” award - UltraAudio, April 2011
“I certainly feel better every time I use VAC gear in the systems I build. I do mean every time. If there has been one amplifier which has never failed me when reaching for top shelf sound, it is the Phi 200... VAC equipment has an uncharacteristically big, beautiful sound. ... The conclusion is clear: the balance of power, fullness, and correctness is unparalleled... The VAC sound is audio-writ large but properly proportioned; it is elegant, opulent and ebullient. The vastness and spatiality of the soundstage with the Phi 200 is quite surprising when heard for the first time... Their quality, reliability and unimpeachable sound earn them a resounding recommendation.”
- DaGoGo, December 2010