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

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I just installed a BAT VK 80 preamp.  I agree: it was transformational.  Best money I have spent.

hi Mark,   Thanks for your response.   i am so impressed by the VK-80.  Now i am thinking about getting a REX 300 amp next year.   have not heard one,  or even read  about it,  but i bet it is a killer.  my current amp,  a Coda 16, is a terrific unit and it may be that the Bat does not really improve on it but i have such confidence in the BAT gear. 

So you got a pair of FR20's?  they too are on my list of things to consider.   I am using Thiel 3.7 speakers, and so far i have really not heard anything (that i can afford) that really improves on them.  They are amazing speakers.   and yes the DSD DAC II is a fantastic unit.