The 7.5 I consider a great value in itself. Even without the very good sound (which IMO it has) it is an ergonomic feat. Just the right amount of functionality meaning not going over the edge like Japanese receivers with features one will never use (well maybe once ). If the 6.5 is like it in the sonic and ergonomic views then certainly worth an audition. The caveat is VTL is not "classic" tube sounding unless you tube roll with tubes in the extremes. Great low level resolution with linearity to go with it. Vintage sound type of folks might find it a bit too far off their norm.