Integrated Amplifier
VAC’s most affordable and compact music solution is a full-integrated amplifier, with 85-watt/channel power amplifier, true triode tube line control amplifier, and triode moving magnet phono stage. Flexibility is ensured by standard remote control, home theater input, preamplifier outputs, and optional MC and balanced inputs. If sound quality and simplicity are the priorities, this exceptionally musical amplifier is the answer.
Quality is held to VAC’s high standards, with great care taken in combining all of the elements of separate components into a single, well integrated package. Of particular essence is the presence of a true line stage (with optional balanced inputs), and a proper volume control (not a digital or VCA control on a microchip as is the modern fashion).
The fact that every single stage in the audio chain is in intimate proximity means that they can share a very tight, precise common ground reference, to realize the true performance possibility of the integrated form. To ensure purity and stability, the Sigma 160i incorporates separate rectifiers and power filters for the preamplifier sections. Similarly, the mechanical placement of all of the parts, from the transformers to the vacuum tubes to the capacitors and resistors has been undertaken using the principals embodied in our cost-no-object Statement amplifiers.
The Sigma 160i SE (Special Edition) enhances performance by upgrading the input transformers and many passive parts to the types used in the premium Statement instruments. Greater size, detail, speed, and weight is the result.
An optional glass/machined aluminum cage is available, for an appearance reminiscent of the Statement amplifiers.
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Wattage
86 watts/channel
Gain
37 dB MM
57 dB MC
Frequency Response
RIAA +/- .25 dB
Power Bandwidth
13 Hz to 70 kHz
Inputs
MC and balanced inputs optional
Outputs
Connections to precisely match loudspeaker loads of 4 and 8 ohms
Tubes
4x KT88
4x 12AU7
3x 12AX7
Residual Noise
3 mV at output (S/N ratio approx. 69 dB)
Overload
117 mV @ 1 kHz = 8 volts RMS output; 460 mV @ 10 kHz
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
Remote Control
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)
7.9 x 18 x 18 in. (201 x 457 x 458 mm.)
Shipping Weight
67 lbs. (30 kg.)
NOTE: Phono stage does not invert absolute phase.
*Specifications subject to change without notice.
“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 - you likely have not heard the expansiveness a fine tube amp can bring to a system... My experience with the Phi 200 is that I can be assured that no matter which loudspeaker I put into the rig I’ll get top quality sound... Their quality, reliability and unimpeachable sound earn them a resounding recommendation.”
- Doug Schroeder, Dagogo.com December 2010