I used BAT equipment such as the VK-500 (upgraded) VK-150se monoblocks, the VK-51se, and the upgraded VK-40 which I still have for direct comparisons. The Belles 350-A monoblocks give up a tube like smoothness but have a solid state power and depth to the bass no tube gear will ever touch at any price. The 21-A preamp at $2495 sounds easily distinguishable from the 51se and VK-40 by definition of better dynamics and overall clarity. I have sold a VK-51se to an audiogoner who recently was acknowledging the later purchase and preference for the 21-A. The 21-A has an upgrade being offered as of this week that blows it through $10k performance expectations for $2995. Put a pair of $8000 Belles 350-A monoblocks up against anything out to twenty and thirty thousand dollars in direct comparison in any system and you will choose the Belles. I have a reference set-up that is as accurate and involving as you have ever heard. I'm using the new Meadowlark Blue Heron 2's (which may very well switch you from Utopia or Kharmas, it's happened before), an Electrocompaniet EMC-1 cd player, and JPS Labs Aluminata power cords and wire with the Belles 350-A monoblocks and 21-A preamp. I have BAT electronics here to compare to. If you want to make the Kharmas or Utopias sound their best check the Belles amps out, the 350's have consistantly been reviewed as having the best bass control of any amplifier at any price by every reviewer to have their hands on them. Several reviewers called it the best amp they have ever heard at any price. These amps make the Wilson Audio X-1 Grand Slamms sound the best I've ever heard them, these are ruthless speakers you wouldn't dare put inferior electronics on. Contact me if you want a demo.
Keith
Holy Grail Audio
