Audio Research VSi75 SE Natural

The VSi75 integrated amplifier breaks new ground in an ‘all in one’ product design, and sets a new benchmark in the lifelike reproduction of music. The VSi75 continues the design series of ‘open chassis’ products from Audio Research such as the VSi60 and VS115, yet incorporates new developments from the Reference series product to combine in a visually striking and sonically astonishing product.

The VSi75 springboards from the award-winning VSi60 and takes the listener to new plateaus of musical enjoyment. While similar in form to the ’60, the chassis has been reworked and refined to reflect the industrial design for which Audio Research is known: the front panel reflects those on full-size components, the perforated cover hearkens back to earlier Audio Research products, and the chassis is a sealed, monochromatic silver to match with the rest of the components. The front panel sports a new LCD display which clearly displays input, volume and other functional information.

Performance-wise, the VSi75 is in an entirely different league for a number of reasons. It has a new power transformer that was designed around the KT120 output tube. The VSi75’s wide bandwidth output transformers are the same as those in the remarkable Reference 75, and we also incorporate some key REF75 parts including proprietary coupling caps. And, we doubled the bulk power supply caps.

The resulting sound from these cumulative improvements is striking, with tremendous resolution of detail, silky and extended highs, surprising weight and authority, and the ability to develop an immense sound stage. The VSi75 sounds very much like the amp from which it borrows, the REF75, with an immediacy, delicacy and focus that are captivating. Couple it with a deserving source like the REFCD9 for a euphoric experience.