VAC Standard 220 - Manual (Page 7)

Page 7
Matching Standard 220 To Your Loudspeakers
Like many modern tube amplifiers, Standard 220 includes multiple settings for the speaker outputs.
Do NOT assume that the setting which corresponds to your speakers’ published impedance
specification will yield the best sound. Due to the various standards by which impedance can be
measured, not to mention the fact that a speaker’s impedance varies with frequency, it is impossible
to assert with certainty which output tap will yield the best sound. For this reason, VAC strongly
suggests auditioning your speakers through all settings. In general, we find that a speaker’s
minimum impedance is more important than its nominal (average) impedance when determining
which setting is correct. A lack of bass response often indicates that a lower impedance setting
should be tried.
CHASSIS CARE
Although your VAC Standard 220 chassis and faceplate are extremely durable, its finish can be
scratched, chipped or damaged if improperly treated. Cleaning with a soft, damp cloth while the
amplifier is switched off and unplugged should restore the finish to its original lustre. Never clean
Standard 220 with harsh or caustic cleansing agents.
When shipping your Standard 220, be certain to wrap the amplifier in the cloth, tissue or plastic
wrap in which it was originally packaged. Given the high gloss of the lacquered finish, make sure
there are no ridges or sharp surfaces in those parts of the cloth which contact the faceplate. Use of
a coarser cloth or failure to otherwise protect the faceplate may result in damage to the finish. VAC
is not responsible for cosmetic damage resulting from improper care or packing.
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