Randy's "New" VT-50

I thought everyone might fine this interesting. I wrote ARC to ask them about tube replacements, etc. Here is their reply (oh by the way, they do have replacement case tops if I wanted to buy a new one because of the scratched, etc.).

"Summary: ARC recommends the entire tube set be replaced at 2000 hours. Since this is an older model that lacks an hour meter, we recommend either keeping a log of hours you run the amp, or just plan on replacing the tube set at 3 years of use, which appears to be about 2000 hours for most customers. An owner can replace and bias the output tubes. It is recommended a technician replace the input and driver tubes as shop test equipment is needed to set up the amp during this service."
 
I successfully adjusted the bias today. I was very nervous doing it for the first time, ever...

The volt meter I got is a piece of cake to use. I also got an extra set of leads with clips on them (because of how you have to bias these classic little ARC amps).

ARC's manual states to let the amp settle for 15 minutes before checking. I gave it about 25 minutes. Both channels were reading at about 66.7. The adjustment pod is very sensitive. I set each as close to 65 that I could get without going over. I think one was 64.8 and the other channel was 64.9.

All hooked back in the system and playing fine!
 
Randy,

When you are ready for Triode M845 amps, let me know. 50 glorious watts and auto bias!
 
Well no.... I still have the SOA II. I might consider letting it go... but dam it is a great amp...
 
Randy

Congrats on getting over the hurdle. Now all you need to do is check them about twice a year and you should be good to go for a long time with the VT-50. It will take considerably more money to do any better than it and it is all the power you need. If you change to a larger or much less efficient speaker then you can look around. The short time it takes to bias even new tubes keeps you involved and is more precise than auto-biasing.
 
Thanks Jack... the little ARC is really nice... the Ampzilla does some things better also, such as a little deeper base and a tad more dynamic. The Ampzilla is better for rock and certainly better for high volume, but for my current taste the ARC fulfills most of my needs!
 
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