Bat with non balanced pramps?

My BAT VK30 doesn't look too offensive to me, neither does my BAT VK500 amp. Rather handsome IMHO. I absolutely love BAT products. Now, why do they use those f%#&#%g hex screws? What a pain in the neck to remove 'em when you wanna roll your tubes. Two of 'em just wouldn't come out and the heads stripped ridiculously easily. Shouldn't have to use pliers to remove screws. And, if you insist on using them, then countersink 'em so they at least look professional. I'm gonna go kick something hard.

Beemer-Your telling me BAT's gear isn't fashionable???? I must sell, I can't have industrial looking gear!!! lol

~Tim

This would be a no brainer. You need a BAT preamp.
I've got two systems, BAT VK3i pre in one and a VK50SE in the other. Formerly an Audio Research fan, and recently demo'd an LS16 as a possible replacement for the VK3i, however there was no comparison in my situation. I find even the lower-end BAT gear to be a great value compared to the offerings of others. Some need flashy chrome and stuff, for me the industrial look works well, and the sound is right.

beemer

Hi Sreno, I would suggest either getting a VK30se or 50se. If you don't have the money yet look for a plain 30 or 50 and have BAT upgrade it to the "SE" version when you're ready. You won't be sorry for the investment. Best of luck Tom P.S. Same goes for the VK-60 mono amps. Pure magic!!!

I agree again that a BAT pre would be better then most other for similar money. I used an Accuphase DC-300 pre going to my VK-60, I tried both balanced and single ended out into the VK-60(using those little adaptors that plug into the back of the amp XLR's) I found that as long as a product is truly balanced(ala BAT, some Accuphase-mine was balanced) it sounds better balanced. The BAT web page covers this in there FAQ section I believe check it out www.balanced.com

~Tim

The BAT preamps are excellent and would be my first choice in your situation.

Jfrech
What is the dealer's name and number. I have the Hovland and want a '75.

DONT KNOW YOUR BUDGET IS BUT THE INTEGRA RESEARCH RDC-7 HAS FULLY BALANCED OUTPUTS ON THEIR PRE AND IS SUPERB ON MUSIC AND HT . ACTUALLT BAT HAD SOME INPUT INTO THE DESIGN OF THE PRODUCT.

My dealer in Dallas is running a Hovland into a VK75SE hooked up to Wilson Sophia's. I thought it sounded great.

I have a vk50se/vk60 combo. I'd think the easy/safe decision is to go with a BAT preamp...mix n match will always get you different sound, only sometimes better. Depends on your tastes...sorry I can't directly help more.

Why not to cosider a BAT preamp?