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 5 responses by classical1

classical1 OP
168 posts
 
Thanks for your responses so far..

51se vs. 32se scenario is a give and take situation, where the new 32se has a more natural organic rendition of texture/timbre of tone.
Tom, I really liked the 51SE and if in fact the 32SE does the above that's what I'm looking for. I have to say I'm in no way disappointed with the 3-IX. I think it's a very nice preamp.

I had a 51SE once - best pre I've owned. I like BAT's service, build quality and am very anxious to try my first tube amp. The BAT equipment I've had just sounds 'right' to me so any other thoughts on the 32/32SE would be appreciated.
Thanks - Mark
classical1 OP
168 posts
 
Tom,

Thanks for the sound advice, which I intend to heed! I was planning on using the 3ix upon arrival of the 55SE and might likely find no need to upgrade :)

It makes sense to just use some frequent flyer miles and go listen to one if the time comes, but would still be curious to hear from a VK32/VK32SE owner as to how you like your preamp.

Thanks

Mark
classical1 OP
168 posts
 
Mama-mia this VK-55SE is nice. Still not completely broken in, but as I said elsewhere, I was fearful of trying a tube amp and now I wish I'd done it earlier.. As a newbie I like the fact that there's no biasing to do.

I'd never really heard holographic like sound 'til now and there is more 'air' and a greater sense of 'space' between instruments. The mids are more natural sounding and I don't notice any lack of slam compared to the VK-220 or an Ayre amp I had.

After another 100 hours I'm going to replace the (2) stock 6922 tubes- haven't yet removed the cover but imagine they're Sovteks. Also, as the amp only has (2) 6H30's I'm thinking of trying a couple of 6h30-DR tubes.

Art, thanks for your thoughts on the 3i-x and 32se. I still would be very interested in hearing the 32 series, but in no hurry. Another pleasant surprise is how quiet the BAT tube combo is. I'm really liking this.
classical1 OP
168 posts
 
Art, I think you'll find info in the archives. .. here's one link that might help. http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1212717252&read&keyw&zzbat.

Mark
classical1 OP
168 posts
 
Rgurney:
I think you're mistaken.. I'm doing a remodel & can't check my amp (VK-55SE), but I checked my manual from BAT and mine has the same tube configuration as what Tungvu has. (two 6SN7 tubes).

Are you thinking of the VK-3IX? It has 2-6V6 tubes.
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