The new VAC ($150.000) Statement 450i iQ Integrated Amplifier is an ultimate performance, cost-no-object instrument that establishes a new benchmark for sound quality in integrated amplifiers. Part of the secret of its performance is in the unusual vertical form factor, which allows the optimal placement of circuit elements and purest, most direct routing of signals.
VAC's patented iQ Continuous Stable Automatic Bias system keeps the KT88 output tubes set at the intended operating point at all times for better sound, protection, and automatic indication of when tubes should be replaced.
The Statement 450i iQ goes on sale on October 2. MSRP has been established at $150,000.
VAC is an internationally known manufacturer of the finest high-end audio components. It was established in 1990 in Sarasota, Florida, where it maintains its offices and manufacturing facilities.
VAC / Valve Amplification Company will introduce the latest member of its award-winning family of Statement audio components at the 2018 Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in Denver, CO, October 5-7.
VAC STATEMENT 450i iQ SPECIFICATIONS
Type: Fully integrated vacuum tube amplifier with true line stage, phono stage, and cinema bypass
Separate mono left & right power supplies for power amplifier, line stage, and phono stage (six main power transformers)
Power Amplifier Section
Output: 225 watts/channel into 2, 4, or 8 ohms
Type: Fully balanced circuit
VAC iQ Continuous Automatic Stable Bias System
Phase: Non-inverting
Gain: 31 dB
Frequency response 4 Hz to 75 kHz
Power bandwidth 20 Hz to 70 kHz
Tubes: 8x KT88
4x 6SN7
Residual noise: Typically, 700 microvolts or less at the speaker terminals
Line Stage Section
Type: Fully balanced circuit with transformer input and output coupling
Gain: 11 dB
Phase: Non-inverting
Frequency Response: Flat over the audio band
–3 dB bandwidth 4 Hz-250 kHz
THD: < 0.007% @ 1 kHz, 1 V RMS
Maximum Input: Infinite signal (attenuation precedes the gain circuitry)
Tubes: 2x 7308, 6922, E88CC, ECC88, or 6DJ8 twin triodes
Mode: Full Class A1 triode with zero negative feedback
Inputs: Five (three RCA, two RCA or balanced XLR)
External output: XLR fully balanced for subwoofer or processor
Maximum Output > 8 V RMS
Output Impedance < 150 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, static (i.e., not dependent upon feedback)
Recommended Load > 300 ohms
Cinema Bypass: Yes, fixed gain, balanced or single-ended
May be used with Line Stage Output to insert a signal processor
Remote: Included, controls volume and mute functions
Phono Stage Section
Inputs: Three
Tubes: 4 x 12AX7
Mode: Class A1 triode
Gain: 44 dB MM (low gain)
62 dB MC (medium gain)
68 dB MC (high gain)
Absolute Phase: Does not invert absolute phase
Frequency Response: RIAA standard +/- 0.2 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
-3 dB bandwidth 10 Hz - 80 kHz
Channel Separation: > 84 dB @ 1 kHz
Maximum Input: > 130 mV @ 1 kHz, MM (low gain); >500 mV @ 10 kHz
> 16 mV @ 1 kHz, MC (medium gain)
> 8 mV @ 1 kHz, MC (high gain)
Load Impedance: MM, 47k Ohms
MC selectable 1000, 500, 250, 150, 100, or 50 Ohms
Residual Noise: Less than 3MV at output (s/n ratio > 74 dB)
General Information
XLR phasing: EIA “pin 2 hot” studio standard (pin 2 +, pin 3 -)
Logo illumination: Switchable, bright, dim, or off
Voltage: May be factory configured for operation at 100, 120, 220, or 230/240 volts
Power Cord Detachable power cord, standard IEC power receptacle
Dimensions: 18.5" deep (plus knobs & connectors) x 10.5" wide x 44.5" high (approximate)
Weight: 400 lbs. approximate
Packing: Custom flight case with wheels