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That Transformational piece of Gear We All Wish For

I suspect most of the music/audio lovers on this web site have wished for that piece of gear that literally transforms their system?  I know i have.  I have been going down this audio rabbit hole since the mid 70’s, and there have been a few pieces that made a really nice improvement to my system (the PS Audio P20 Power plant being one of them).  However (and this comment only applies to pre-amps and amps and no other category), nothing that I can ever recall has so energized and improved my system in so many ways as my new pre-amp.  I have owned some really fine brands in the past including Pass,  Coda, ARC, PS Audio,  Rowland, and more, but now I am a BAT Man for sure.   The new pre-amp is the BAT VK-80 and I love that beast.  I hope everyone reading this will get a chance someday to try one in their system.  I know he is a controversial figure,  but Kevin Deal's review of this piece is so right on.  He really loves it too and rightfully so.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iv2swa55JXo

 

My system consists of:

Thiel 3.7 speakers

Coda 16 power amp

PS Audio DSD DAC MK II

PS Audio Perfect Wave transport

PS Audio P20 power plant

BAT VK 80 preamp

ronkent

Showing 2 responses by kerrybh

kerrybh
237 posts
 

I finally got a plan to treat my room done by people who know what they are doing- I don’t- and about 25% of the installation is done. Significant improvement- more than I expected. Better everything. I’ve tested several tweaks- high end switches, filters, etc.,  and honestly couldn’t hear a difference, certainly not enough to justify the cost.   The room treatment, however, made a clearly noticeable improvement even to my old ears. Looking forward to getting the project finished 

kerrybh
237 posts
 

@vthokie83  

I agree 100%-much bigger thrill in unboxing a shiny new gizmo and reading the congratulatory message from the manufacturer complimenting my intelligence for making such a profoundly wise choice. I love that.

@lalitk

I have a local vendor that did the measurements and is doing the installation. The plan and the panels are by Artnovion. So far, so good. Good level of consultation to create a plan that would improve the listening experience, that was within my budget, and that I could live with. Didn't expect as much improvement as I hear, and still more to go.

If I was handier, smarter, and had more time and patience, I'm sure I could have made this a DIY project with good results.  Since that's not the case, satisfied so far.

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