VC has a bit more impact than the AC. I think the AC sounds more analogue with a bit more natural presentation. I think it sounds more organic than the VC. The bass is absolute bliss on the AC maybe even too much for some people, it is weighty and textured but may feel a little slow compared to the VC. I have Olive wood on my AC which is harder than the default wood that ZMF will release so that can contribute to the speed of the drivers as there would be more decay in softer woods. The suede pads can make the AC sounds cleaner and more accurate compared to the stock pads but I prefer the stock pads.