VAC Renaissance Triode Phono Preamplifier SE

The VAC Renaissance Special Edition mates the circuitry of the Master Preamplifier’s phonostage within its own standalone chassis and provides 3 independent inputs for use with multiple tonearms.  The Renaissance SE uses six 12AX7 tubes for amplification of the phono signal and its RIAA equalization.  A separate external power supply and an advanced audio chassis design optimize EM shielding.  The 3 inputs are through either premium Cardas rhodium RCA or XLR jacks enabling 3 separate tonearms to be supported.  The single output is through a pair of Cardas rhodium RCA jacks.  Front panel controls provide for the gain and MM/MC cartridge loading, mono or stereo operation, input selection, and the display illumination (normal/dim/off).  

This unit is an early SE built in 2018 before the SE logo was added to the Renaissance logo.  Kevin Hayes, President of VAC, verified that the unit is an SE via email (hard copy provided with sale).  Kevin tells me that the shorter wiring path and lack of interconnect in the Master implementation of the circuitry provides a slight improvement in detail over the external version.  I have thus decided to upgrade my VAC Master linestage preamp with its own phonostage as I have no need or plans to use multiple tonearms.  Original manual and shipping carton are included.  I am the original owner having bought the unit from a VAC dealer (Pro Star Audio) in 2019. 

Paypal is the preferred method of payment and I will cover the fees.  Unfortunately, due to my past experiences with forged bank checks from A’gon buyers, payment by check or money order will delay shipment until check clears the bank clearinghouse (10 working days)- sorry.  Please contact me with any questions.

Technical Specifications:

Serial Number: 1826905

Tube complement: 12AX7 (6)

Gain: 44 dB MM; 62 or 68 dB MC (switchable)

Frequency Response: RIAA +/-0.2 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz), -3 dB bandwidth 10 Hz - 80 kHz

Channel Separation > 80 dB @ 1 kHz

MC Load Impedance selectable, 470, 300, 250, 200, 150, and 100 ohms

Overload 117MV @ 1kHz = 8 volts RMS output; 460MV @ 10kHz

Residual Noise Less than 3MV at output (s/n ratio greater than approx. 69db)

Power External power supply, detachable umbilical cable, detachable IEC power cord

Voltage 120 V (May be factory configured for operation at 100, 120, 220, or 230/240 volts)