Price Paid:  $1700.00 from Auction

Summary:
Visually as you can see the tubes are uncovered as opposed to previous ARC models (eg. Classic60, V70, D90, D90b, VT200 etc.) which is a plus. No more muffle fans. The VS55 is a lot easier to be biased to ensure the peak performance of the unit at the least expense of the power tubes. What a great improvement by ARC!!

Sonically, the VS55 does sound a lot warmer, refined, smoooth hi with great details. Relaxing but still gives a good punch (when needed) not soft at all. The VS55 does a great job from top to bottom, and the midrange is extremely well presented. It might be a little bit weak on low when a pair of floor standers are used but still the low was very well controlled. I consider VS55 is an excellent piece of tube amp well designed and quality built by ARC both visually and sonically. Overall, it's a great amp priced at less than 3k. Excellent.

Strengths:
Smooth warm sounding with great details. Easy to bias.

Weaknesses:
A bit weak on the low punch but acceptable.

Similar Products Used:
conrad johnson MV60