I'm using a VK-3i with my Magneplanar 1.6QR's also. I found that the preamp benefits from using good NOS tubes - I settled on Amperex Orange Globe 6922's after trying various brands and substitutions. The 3i is very neutral and sounds great but I wouldn't describe its tonal balance as being "warm".
BAT or Sonic Frontiers w/ Martin Logans?
OK, I need to "warm up" my Martin Logan SL-3's with a tube amp for under $1500 (Driven by Sunfire amp). The two finalists are the BAT VK 3i and the Sonic Frontiers Line 1. Can anyone make recomendations one way or another? If any Martin Logan owners can share experiences I would appreciate it. I live over an hour away from any hi-fi stores so your input will save me lots of time.