2. amps-preamps
  3. 1226705834

BAT VK-32 tube preamp or stay with BAT VK-3ix

I have ordered a BAT VK-55SE. (I was using a solid state VK-220). I currently have a BAT VK-3ix which I really think is a nice preamp. I haven't been able to find much on the VK-32 and am curious to know if you think it would be a big step up from the VK-3ix. If I do this I'm probably looking at the non-SE version of the preamp as I kind of like the idea of the 6922's in the chain. (If you think the SE version is the better option plse say so).

Would prefer to not have recommendations for another brand of preamp as I really like BAT and the synergy I got with the VK-220 and 3-ix. I just got the urge to try a Tube amp for the first time, so any thoughts on the VK-32 or 32SE are appreciated.

Source is Ayre C-5xe and speakers = Harbeth M-30, and I don't have a local dealer where I can audition.

Thanks, Mark
classical1

Showing 7 responses by art80342

art80342
65 posts
 
thank u classical!!!

seems like the undisputable winner in BAT are the vk75 and or 75se depending on ur love for 6h30....

INTERESTINGLY, a friend came over this morning and we talked a bit about same topic and he remarked that for same amount of money, one would get much much more value with CAYIN / MELODY in their top top range .....

and that he has heard both BAT and these 2 brands, though sonically v different - but still comparable...

I refuse to believe / argue :)
art80342
65 posts
 
cayin / melody beats bat???

any thoughts??

i would hate to believe this ...
art80342
65 posts
 
i audition both 32se and 3xi for my vk55 power amp.

i returned 32se the next day but kept the 3xi / 55 combo for a week.

they just somehow sound more right - airy - delicate than the 32se/55 combo which sound more solid state to me ...
art80342
65 posts
 
hello Tom, actually

i am divided between the vk-32 or vk32se or vk52se as a pre amp now... am deciding to get a new preamp and then a used power amp....budget constraint

any advice...

Art
art80342
65 posts
 
Trcnetmsncom,

Thanks so much for your timely assistance...with guys like you around, this forum then is able to make all the differences .....
art80342
65 posts
 
ALLn rave reviews about VK 55 and VK 55SE ....

Any one can share soem thoughts about VK75 (non SE)???
as after what 'Trcnetmsncom' said, seriously thinking about the

52SE / vk75 combi :)
art80342
65 posts
 
hi tungvu,

the vk75 family are very very different with the line of vk55 / vk55 se.

the top and bottom end of the vk 75 are much much more distinctive and likely one will easily be able to make a decision after A/B audition.

i know somebody whom refuse the vk75 after doing a home audition with his tannoy speakers while gladly pair the vk 55.

i owned the vk 55 monoblocks and prior that the vk 55 stereo and did EXTENSIVE A/B comparision with both vk 75 and vk 75 se and vk 55. vk 55 BLOOMS in the mid range with simply renders vocals better ..... hence i was willing to give up the top/bottom ...
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