2. amps-preamps
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Need to replace a BAT VK200 amp with a smaller and lighter but with equal sound quality.

Need recommendations for a smaller and lighter amp to replace a BAT VK 200 amp which is  very good . The BAT is 100 RMS, and weighs close to 70 lbs, It has become unmanageable to move or clean in a component rack.  New amp must be at least equivalent or better in sound quality. 

For the record, the pre-amp is a Conrad Johnson PV-14L SE

Thank you,

S.J.

sunnyjim
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
Also, a pair of Belles Aria monoblocks.  Easily lifted and shifted.
mrdecibel
2,971 posts
 
S.J., what speakers are you running ? Is it in an open component rack, as the amp runs warm ? When cleaning, do you need to move it ? In sq, what is it that you like, as most amplifiers have a " personality " ( another recent thread here). The 2 amps George has mentioned are getting a lot of attention, although are quite different from each other, and from the BAT. I am not trying to be the devils advocate, just would like to know as to further assist. Enjoy ! MrD.
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 

Thanks to  those that responded. Surely the, Schitt amp is an unbelievable  bargain at $699. Though the Benchmark seems like the one to buy.  However BM claims they are currently sold out of this fabulous amp because of demand .However, I was not anticipating spending 3K on an amp. I would rather pursue a used BAT integrated or a Hegel as long that it does not have a built-in DAC which I would not use.

To mrdecibel:  The speakers are Golden Ear Technology model 7's, a very good speaker, but I want to upgrade to something better.

As far as the BAT position in the my standard audio rack, it sits at the bottom and so access is not great. With the other components in the rack the total weight is probably about 150 +lbs. 

The sound signature of the BAT is neutral and detailed, though it can sound a bit dry. However with the Conrad Johnson pre-amp, the sound is nicely balanced with no glare, grit or mushy lows

. I have considered replacing the rack with a simple and sturdy table at least 60 inches long and 19 inches deep.and 28-30 inches high  But so far I have found nothing that I like, or will work with placing all the components on its flat top. ( that is, amp. pre-amp, CD player and turntable). That would be ideal and access to clean or tweak would be easy.. The only other option is an amp stand, but that would take up space in front of the rack. and I would still have to bend down to clean or tighten speaker cable lugs,or plug in banana  jacks. 

Will keep you posted.

S.J.      

 

georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Surely the, Schitt amp is an unbelievable bargain at $699.

Yes it’s a no brainer for the price, and because it uses BJT’s as output devices, it wouldn’t surprise me "if" it keeps up the current into hard loads that the Benchmark can, they seem to be equal on wattage into 8ohm 100w for both and 4ohm 200w for Vidar and 190w for AHB2.
Be interesting to see a 2ohm wattage to see if which can do closer to 400w. 

All Schiit products are exceptional value for money, as all the expense in circuit design and quality is inside where it counts, and the outside is well utilitarian to save on costs.No wasted money on expensive glitz and glamour on the outside.

Cheers George
mesch
3,417 posts
 
S.J., If you are considering a 60" table, why wouldn't your rack and an amp stand not fit side by side within this constraint? The amp on a stand would be lower to the floor, thus having less impact on the soundstage.

Have your considered Odyssey amps?
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