VAC Auricle Mk I Amplifier - Manual (Page 8)

Page 8
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT TUBES
It is true that each brand of tube sounds different in a particular high resolution circuit. This
is because no two manufacturers make a tube type in quite the same way, and the central
tendencies of the performance parameters will differ slightly with each maker.
This sonic variability may at first seem a liability, but further thought will reveal that it is an
advantage. The owner of a tube amplifier can select those tubes which sound like the real
thing in his/her specific system. VAC can recommend the best tubes for your amplifier.
Normally vacuum tubes should last for 4,000 to 12,000 hours of use, or two to ten years for
most users. There are always occasional exceptions, long or short. If you have to replace a
tube before, say, 3,000 hours, just replace the single tube. If you have to replace a tube at
8,000 hours, replace them all and keep those still functioning well as spares
VAC will be happy to test tubes for concerned customers.
VAC Auricle SPECIFICATIONS (typical)
Type: Vacuum tube power amplifier.
Options: Tube cage
Output matching: 4, 8, or 16 ohms nominal
Power output: Greater than 50 watts/channel ultralinear
Frequency response: 9 Hz - 35 kHz +0 / -0.5 dB; 3 Hz - 71 kHz +0 / -3.0 dB
Power bandwidth: 11 Hz - 63 kHz + 0 / -3.0 dB ref. 50 watts
Gain: 25 dB ultra-linear
Residual noise: 1.5 mV at 8 ohm output
Channel separation: -72 dB @ 1 kHz; -60 dB @ 10 kHz
Tube compliment: 2 x 6BH6
2 x 6CG7
4 x EL34
Warranty: Up to three years parts and labor, excluding tubes (90 days).
Options: Protective tube cage in dark grey.