Choosing between 2 preamps


Hello

I have narrowed down my search to 2 preamps that comes in my budget.

BAT VK-31se

Atma Sphere MP 3 with phono stage(not sure which mk i sent a mail to Ralph)

Both around 2200-2300 dollars.

The BAT Capacitors have been changed to Audience Auricap, instead of 6 each side there are 2 of 10.0mfd 400vdc.

both sounds good, I heard the Atmasphere with my power and B&W 802 diamond, sound was pretty anemic , but i think my power couldn’t drive the speaker properly (AUDIO RESEARCH REF75se)

 

between both of them because I didnt listen side by side I cant really tell, also difference in all other gear except my Power amp.

 

I would be happy to get suggestions regarding it. Thank you

honeybadgertube

Showing 1 response by atmasphere

@honeybadgertube Of NOS 12AU7s the Amperex "Bugle Boy" 7316 has gotten the highest marks in customer feedback. A good alternate is the Bugle Boy 12AU7.

In new tubes we've had good comments about the Gold Lion 12AU7.

No matter what tubes you get or where you got them, in all cases they should be vetted on a tube tester to make sure they test good, then auditioned for low noise, low microphonics and no crackling.