I have no debate to bring against your first point: the triode tube
is still the most linear amplifying device in existence. That comment, however, does not encompass the full and proper context of the system of which it is a part - including not only the complete amplifier, but also the speakers with which it interacts.
I also did not intend to initiate a debate regarding the development of the supporting technologies - improvements in output transformer design and manufacture, for instance. I recognize these and am enthusiastic about them. Modern state of the art is truly state of the art. Indeed, the Cary does exhibit transformer behavior issues that turn me away from the output tubes it supports - 300B/845/211.
I'm not saying those issues cannot be overcome, but to suggest that they can, but often aren't, is to declare that their utilization in the system (as defined earlier in this post) presents an engineering challenge. That is the sum total of my point. Furthermore, I am not asserting that the 6550/KT88 output tubes aren't without their issues either.
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Human perception is a funny thing. Measured perfection is not my objective. I prefer what sounds good to my brain, but that's a tricky thing to find. I've pushed the switches back into ultralinear mode and re-adjusted the level of my subs. I can't quite get the perfection of the bass that I can in triode mode, but I've changed my mind about which of the two modes sounds better in the mid and upper regions - with this amp, in this setup, ultralinear is a little cleaner. Although, for reduced volume listening, triode mode edges back into the lead.
I appreciate your input and I've saved it for possible re-visitation in the future. I really do like the sound of this VAC, and it's amazingly similar to the sound of the Pass. In terms of build quality and design philosophy, I find nothing to fault in this VAC product. I'm glad we can still proudly build a quality product right here in the US - and VAC does a lot of things (like prepare and pot transformers) in-house.
Edits: 01/31/12
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