VAC STANDARD MKII

Pre owned. In good condition. Shows minor signs of wear only on the top. Without remote control and original packaging.

Equipped with MM/MC phono module.

The VAC Standard Mk II is a completely redesigned preamplifier, derived from the iconic Phi Beta model, utilizing four twin-triode vacuum tubes operating in Class A. This unique configuration delivers fast, detailed, and dynamic musical reproduction with exceptional musicality, all without global feedback. Its moderate gain structure and low output impedance make it highly compatible with a wide range of power amplifiers, ensuring a consistent and coherent response across any system. The highly shielded power transformer keeps electromagnetic fields away from the audio circuits while positioning the power source close to the circuit’s demands, allowing for quick transient response and high resolution of inner details. Low-noise rectifiers ensure extremely pure DC supply, preserving both the power and the subtlety of the music, while the heater voltage is precisely regulated to extend tube life. The rigid, non-magnetic chassis further reduces interference and vibrations.

It is equipped with a phono section suitable for both MM and MC/MM cartridges. The MM stage provides 40 dB of gain, making it compatible with MM and many high-output MC cartridges. The MC stage offers approximately 60 dB of gain, designed for low-output cartridges to prevent distortion with high-output pickups. A rear-panel switch allows quick selection between MC and MM modes, adapting the preamplifier to the cartridge type in use.

Source management is extremely versatile. A small control on the front panel allows switching between “Source,” “Tape,” and “Cinema” modes. In “Source” position, input selection is controlled by the main selector. In “Tape” mode, the main selector is bypassed and the tape inputs are activated, with a fixed output for connection to recorders or a second zone in multi-room setups. The “Cinema” mode is one of the Standard Mk II’s most original features: when set to this position, all preamplifier controls are bypassed and the output from the home theater processor is sent directly to the power amplifiers, allowing seamless integration of stereo analog sources and multichannel systems.

Finally, the spring-loaded “Mute” control allows quick muting of the unit, with an LED indicating active mute status. The combination of tube circuitry without feedback and advanced multi-room and home theater controls makes the VAC Standard Mk II a preamplifier that unites extreme fidelity, dynamic range, and remarkable musicality, elegantly adapting to any high-end audio system.

Technical specifications:

• Gain: 24 dB
• Maximum input signal: virtually infinite (attenuation precedes the line stage)
• Main output: inverting on RCA; pin 2 positive “hot” on XLR, pin 3 negative
• Tape output: unity gain from selector, non-inverting (recording correct)
• Phono stage: gain 40 dB (measured at tape output); residual noise 3 mV at output (S/N ratio approx. 69 dB); overload 117 mV @ 1 kHz = 8 V RMS output; 460 mV @ 10 kHz; frequency response RIAA +/- 0.25 dB; does not invert absolute phase
• Dimensions: 35.6 cm (W) x 22.9 cm (H) x 38.1 cm (D)
• Weight: approximately 18 kg