Preowned / Audio Research VM220 // Tube Amplifier Monoblocks / Near Mint
$4,899The Audio Research VM220 is a tube amplifier that sits in the sweet spot between classic tube warmth and modern, high-fidelity performance. These 200-watt monoblock amplifiers are built for audiophiles who crave that rich, full-bodied sound you can only get from tubes, but with the kind of power and control that doesn’t fall apart when you crank up the volume.
First things first: the VM220 is a looker. Its industrial design is all business, with exposed tubes standing tall behind a minimalist front panel. Those KT120 power tubes aren’t just for show—they glow with that warm, inviting light that tells you something special is about to happen when you press play. It’s like the visual cue that your listening session is about to get serious. And at a hefty 200 watts per monoblock, these amps are packing way more power than your typical tube setup, making them capable of driving pretty much any speaker with authority.
In terms of sound, the VM220 is all about balance. You get that classic tube warmth, especially in the midrange, where vocals and instruments feel like they’re breathing right in front of you. But it doesn’t veer into that overly syrupy territory where everything starts to sound soft. The highs are crisp and detailed, but never harsh, and the bass is tight and controlled. This is where the VM220’s muscle really shines—it can handle deep, dynamic bass without turning into a flabby mess, keeping things tight and punchy even at higher volumes.
The Audio Research VM220 is a tube amplifier that sits in the sweet spot between classic tube warmth and modern, high-fidelity performance. These 200-watt monoblock amplifiers are built for audiophiles who crave that rich, full-bodied sound you can only get from tubes, but with the kind of power and control that doesn’t fall apart when you crank up the volume.
First things first: the VM220 is a looker. Its industrial design is all business, with exposed tubes standing tall behind a minimalist front panel. Those KT120 power tubes aren’t just for show—they glow with that warm, inviting light that tells you something special is about to happen when you press play. It’s like the visual cue that your listening session is about to get serious. And at a hefty 200 watts per monoblock, these amps are packing way more power than your typical tube setup, making them capable of driving pretty much any speaker with authority.
In terms of sound, the VM220 is all about balance. You get that classic tube warmth, especially in the midrange, where vocals and instruments feel like they’re breathing right in front of you. But it doesn’t veer into that overly syrupy territory where everything starts to sound soft. The highs are crisp and detailed, but never harsh, and the bass is tight and controlled. This is where the VM220’s muscle really shines—it can handle deep, dynamic bass without turning into a flabby mess, keeping things tight and punchy even at higher volumes.
