BAT VK-300K SE vs. Ayre AX-7e integrateds

I'm curious, as well. What is it that the BAT does wrong, Duane?

I am curious too. As a BAT owner, their top line tube gears, I have seriously considering the top line Ayre amp/pre combo but walked away unimpressed after several audition. So my impression was exactly the opposite of Duane.

Anyone have an opinion of the sound characteristics of the BAT compared to the Ayre/ What does the BAT do well sound wise?

Sorry I didn't get back sooner.

The BAT has a dark grain in the back ground that gives it a punchy but congested feel to dynamics. Almost like electronic gas,

This is more noticeable on speakers that are a little closed in sounding or reserved. If the speaker is bright and efficient then the BAT has a deferent issue. It is a little sharp and doesn't expand wide and deep.

Of course I'm nit picking since it will sound much better than a Krell. LOL

Thanks for the update, Duane. Always nice to have another viewpoint.

Like Simi above, though, my experience has been the opposite of yours. The SE series components in particular seem to cross a threshold between the best solid state and tube gear. IME, they possess the magical midrange characteristics that tubes are typically known for, while creating believable scale and stage and remaining competent at the frequency extremes.

Of course, as always, YMMV.