2. amps-preamps
  3. 1170589220

b.a.t. amps?

i've been steadily upgrading my system for the last month or so. the next and final step is an amp. my set up is: jm labs focal profile 918 speakers, rega apollo cd player, balanced audio technology pre-amp, jps labs interconnects, and audience au24 speaker cable. my question is, would i be making a sonically wrong decision going with an amp other than a b.a t.? a lot of people tell me that the best way to go is to match the pre amp is with a b.a.t. amp. anyone know of a different amp that would work with my system? thanks.
gilman61255
analogtroll
44 posts
 
I am sorting through the same issue. I have a cj pre amp and B.A.T. amps. I am running a Vk51SE in my system at the momment. I have to say that the amps are more alive. There seems to be more transient snap and the notes are sharper. I am not sure if thats because I am running the system with balanced IC's v.s. SE with adapters?
beemer
444 posts
 
Analogtroll:

The BAT gear will give it's best performance in an all-balanced setup. The single-ended adaptors are nothing more than a convenience band-aid.

You are hearing that difference.

There is nothing wrong with mixing components, and also nothing wrong with sticking to the same manufacturer.

Best,

Paul
analogtroll
44 posts
 
I think the most important thing when mixing companies is that your pre-amp output impedance is low and your amp input impedance is high enough to get the most out of that amp
blindjim
3,092 posts
 
using BAT with BAT is a real good idea. using the adapters so it will run with SE items is not a bad idea. I'm about to do that with a diff pre than the one I'm using for the time being as a test bed... apart from the complete turn around in pre characteristics (went from Tube to SS pre, but going back to tube again... in a few days), there are no errant hum, buzz, artifacts, etc.

the Fact CJ inverts phase was a curiosity but I would think you settled that issue. ever how you wish to go... going as is intended is likely going to be best... but they will work either way.

the newer BAT amps are the more snappy, neutrally oriented. SS or tube. Look to previous issues for a warmer sound that still retains dynamics and heft.
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