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

Hi Mark,

From my experience with BAT I do find the SE models to be more accurate and true to the source. They also have better extension at both extremes, dynamics, with better resolution of detail. All very good things!

I would think that VK32se gives the user plenty of control tailoring the sound to one's taste and system with the other options in tube choice. I advise going with the SE version.

Word has it with regards to performance that the 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. I don't know this from first hand experience.

I agree with your choice of sticking with BAT as I also have found their sonic virtues to be so well balanced and on target with my taste on how I hear sound.

As far as BAT the company? I cannot praise them highly enough! Good luck with whatever you decide on.

Best,

Tom

Hello Mark,

Congratulations on the new BAT VK-55se amp! May I suggest to take your time and enjoy the upgrade and the break-in process. Give yourself time to discern the differences you'll be hearing and to learn your likes and (possibly) dislikes from the change to the VK-55se.

Once you feel that you have thoroughly absorbed and lived with the sonic impact from inserting the VK-55se into your system, only then would I look forward to the preamp.

Mark, my reason for offering this advice is that you may have different feelings and opinions on what you'll want from a preamp upgrade until after fully experiencing the changes the new amp has made. For example you may find yourself wanting a more lively upfront presentation or one that is a little more laid back and allows you to listen into the music. From my experience these types of things take the investment of time to surface, until fully appreciating the differences the amp has made my advice would be to wait on the pre. Wish you all the best in this process ....

Enjoy,

Tom

Hello Art,

Congratulations! I'm sure you made a great choice and that the BAT combo will give you many years of wonderful sound.

Enjoy,

Tom

Hello Art,

I haven't heard any of the ones you are thinking of. However I do have some advise.

First, my experience with any of the BAT "SE" vs.non -"SE", amp or preamp, is that I find the "SE" variants to be more tonally accurate, resolved and articulate of detail, better extended, and more linear in dynamics.

If the sonic difference between the 51se vs.31se is any indication of the differences between the 52se and the 32se, then .... if it were me, it would be worth it to go for the 52se.

Another reason my pick would be the 52se is that down the road you could have it upgraded to the (IMHO remarkable!) REX without having to sell. Also, the fact that the 52se can be upgraded to a REX I think would be a desirable selling point if you ever need to sell the 52se.

Art one of the online magazines gave the 52se a stellar review. If I find it I will send you an email with the link of the review ... ok

Best,
Tom

Art, here is the link for the 52se review.
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue37/bat_preamplifier.htm