Renaissance Signature vs Sigma 160i SE
The Sigma 160i SE's mc gain is 57 dB against the Renaissance Signature's 64 dB, its mm gain 37 dB against 44 dB, its output impedance 4Ω against 96Ω, and its weight 30 kg (66 lbs) against 9.07 kg (20 lbs).
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Released in 2000 after six years of development by designer Kevin Hayes, the Renaissance Signature was VAC's top preamplifier model and the first to bear the Renaissance name. It features a fully differential gain stage with direct-heated triodes, no coupling capacitors in the signal path, and no loop negative feedback. The Mk.II update introduced input and output coupling transformers and removed the 12AX7 tubes from the line stage, leaving 8417 dual-triodes as the differential gain stage and 12AU7s as buffer circuits. It offers both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs and outputs, with selectable grounding configurations. The design aims to deliver superb sonic performance with a flat frequency response and the ability to drive various cable and amplifier inputs. An optional phono stage is available, featuring moving magnet and moving coil inputs with selectable loading options. The unit is hand-wired and built with high-quality components for audiophile-grade sound reproduction.
Analog signal output specifications
Phono stage specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The Sigma 160i SE's mc gain is 57 dB against the Renaissance Signature's 64 dB, its mm gain 37 dB against 44 dB, its output impedance 4Ω against 96Ω, and its weight 30 kg (66 lbs) against 9.07 kg (20 lbs).
The Andros PS-1's mc gain is 65 dB against the Renaissance Signature's 64 dB, its mm gain 45 dB against 44 dB, its output impedance 100Ω against 96Ω, and its weight 9 kg (20 lbs) against 9.07 kg (20 lbs).
The TP-2.5i's mc gain is 62 dB against the Renaissance Signature's 64 dB, its mm gain 42 dB against 44 dB, its output impedance 375Ω against 96Ω, and its weight 11.34 kg (25 lbs) against 9.07 kg (20 lbs).
The Ambrosia 2000 Second Edition's mm gain is 42 dB against the Renaissance Signature's 44 dB, its output impedance 50Ω against 96Ω, and its weight 22.68 kg (50 lbs) against 9.07 kg (20 lbs). Both share mc gain (64 dB).
McIntosh C2300
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