2. amps-preamps
  3. 193130-187018

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 4 responses by elliottbnewcombjr

elliottbnewcombjr
5,922 posts
 

Quickie peek, I would pass on the BAT based on the comments about the Soviet Tube they use.

Atma-Sphere, I wish I liked it's looks because everything seems right! I wonder if they could provide a Stereo/Mono in addition to or even instead of Phase, and if not remote balance, then separate left and right volume controls.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,922 posts
 

comments re: those tubes in this review

https://10audio.com/bat_31se/

yes, I was talking only about the visual appearance, and my desired features, atma-sphere's equipment seems top notch, from both their site and remarks from owners here.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,922 posts
 

if you get the serial number, then atma-sphere can tell you about it, including optional future upgrades if they recommend any.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,922 posts
 

I saw this right after I joined the forum

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/atma-sphere-ralph-karsten?highlight=ralph

Ralph has replied in generous detail in many discussions I read, including to me when asking for advice here.

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