bat vk 3i vs arc ls2b

tough call....points to consider. in regards to the sonic signature, you can "roll" the tubes

tubes
arc ls2b - 1 - 6922/7308 tube
bat- 4 6922/7308 tubes ( more $$$$ to retube with premium tubes) and 2 6v6's ( can still get premiums reasonabley)

remote
arc ls2b III remote- goes for big $$$$$$
Bat 3vki - often included(factory upgrade is no longer available)

phono
some units have have it installed. the bat 3vki can be upgraded for $500 (awesome deal imo )

Upgradeabiltity
Bat 3 vki - add phono, super tube option, 6 pack option
ARC 2B- non

Design
The BAT is a true full dual differential balanced full "tube" design ( if you have balanced inputs on your amp- this is a biggie.
The ARC2 is a psuedo balanced "hybrid" design

Power Cord
BAT- your choice
ARC- Factory or modifaction time

imo, the only drawback to the BAT is the 4 6922/7308's.

I would go for the BAT ( i have had both in my house) - the ls2b is very good but it has a slight "grain" on the top. The BAT is a newer design and BAT service is impeccable.

Hope that helps,

mike

call bat on the supertube upgrade...i think ( dont hold me to this) it takes it to a 31se. btw, this a $$$$$$ upgrade, you would be better off selling the unit and buying a used supertube model ( imo).

btw, a really nice pre is the pse h-1. they dont come up that often but here is a run down:

1. 2- 6922/7308 tubes
2. remote
3. sounds like a upgraded arc
4. no phono
5. upgradeable power cord
6. signature factory mod- this is supppose to be a killer (mine is at the factory right now for this).

hope that helps,

mike