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VK-55, VK-60, VK-75...

All three of these BAT amps show up with fair frequency on A'gon. There's a bit of a price difference, but not an enormous one, between the later E &F revisions of the VK-60; the VK-75 (which was the VK-60's successor); and the VK-55 (lowest powered, fewest tubes, but newest).

Can anyone which comparative experience differentiate between the sounds of these units? Whether the theoretical difference in outputs matters in 'real world' settings (e.g., w/ 89 or 90 db @ 1W speakers)?

Thanks!
hrodman

Showing 3 responses by jfrech

jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
I had a vk 60 then went to a vk75se. The diff was rather large...not subtle at all. bass control, extension, ditto on the top end, better imaging, better depth, blacker background. All around a better amp. It was a little leaner in sound...but still has a wonderfully fleshed out midrange.

I don't know if the extra power did it...I think it's just a better amp. Much better.
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
More power? Just go with a 2nd vk60. It'll also sound better...imaging depth, control... good luck!
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
Fishwater...I'm sure the 75 is a little better. The 75SE is a huge step forward. What about a 60 to 60se upgrade? I've read around hear that the 60se and 75se aren't far off.

Also, have you put better tubes in your vk60? The front two 6sn7's are quite important and can really improve the sound. The other 6sn7's to a lesser extent. Also new 63ccb's every 18-24 months helps.

Power cords and isolation help on the bat amps as well.
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