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The VAC Phi Beta integrated amplifier is, quite simply, the finest audio amplification solution available, bar none. By combining the heritage of the Phi separate components with the inherent possible advantages of the integrated embodiment, an entirely new level of performance has be attained. With the VAC Phi Beta you hear all of the "hi-fi" attributes, but in a way totally subservient to the feel and emotion of the music. After all, that is what music is all about.
The single greatest advantage of the integrated form is the fact that all of the amplification stages, both pre- and power, can refer to a single, tight ground reference. This provides a reference point for the signal that is unsurpassed. In essence, it is the strongest, most elegant foundation possible. Properly implemented, as in the Phi Beta, the resulting sonic purity, dynamics, and detail are absolutely astounding.
The one major drawback to integrated amplifiers of the past has been due to radiated noise fields from the power supply. To overcome this, the Phi Beta utilizes a massive external power supply that may be located as much as six feet from the audio chassis. Of course, final power reservoirs and ground references are located in the audio chassis.
Of course, the integrated design allows complete control of the interface between the two components. This eliminates one set of interconnect cables and spares the audio signal from another trip through the outside world, which sidesteps an opportunity for RFI and EMI pickup.
Internally, the Phi Beta incorporates the superb MM/MC phono stage of the Phi 2.0 Master Control amplifier, an all-new line stage with balanced inputs and outputs, and a potent power amplifier derived from the Phi 110/110 power amplifier.
All of the Phi user interface and remote control features are present. These include:
Remote control of power, input selector, tape monitor, cinema input, mute, and volume
All controls are duplicated on the front panel with simple, direct acting switches
All line inputs may be assigned as volume-controllable, or as fixed-gain inputs for sources with their own level controls
Can communicate with other Phi components via the iVAC data buss
12 volt triggers allow control of other brands of ancillary equipment
With preamplifier outputs (balanced and RCA) and switchable power amplifier direct inputs, it is easy to use external crossovers and/or biamplify with the Phi Beta.
Other notable features include:
Intensity of illuminated VAC logo varies with ambient room light level
Audio chassis is machined from aircraft aluminum
Output tubes continuously monitored by VAC Beam Power Sentry circuit, which alerts you when a tube should be replaced and shuts the amplifier off if a KT88 fails
110 watt/channel output into 2, 4, or 8 ohm speakers
double choke power filtering
complete regulation of all heater and 'housekeeping' circuits
typical 8,000 hour average tube life
three year warranty (tubes 90 days)
The most important feature, of course, is the sound quality. It is the result of VAC's relentless attention to detail and thousands of hours of "voicing". Once heard, it will redefine your expectation of what is possible and, thereafter, necessary.
Approximate dimensions:
Audio chassis: 17.7" x 17" x 9.2" (W x D x H) plus knobs and connectors; shipping weight 100 lbs.
Power supply: 9.2" x 14.5" x 9" (W x D x H); shipping weight 42 lbs.
