BAT VK-32 tube preamp or stay with BAT VK-3ix

Art, here is the link for the 52se review.
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue37/bat_preamplifier.htm

Mama-mia this VK-55SE is nice. Still not completely broken in, but as I said elsewhere, I was fearful of trying a tube amp and now I wish I'd done it earlier.. As a newbie I like the fact that there's no biasing to do.

I'd never really heard holographic like sound 'til now and there is more 'air' and a greater sense of 'space' between instruments. The mids are more natural sounding and I don't notice any lack of slam compared to the VK-220 or an Ayre amp I had.

After another 100 hours I'm going to replace the (2) stock 6922 tubes- haven't yet removed the cover but imagine they're Sovteks. Also, as the amp only has (2) 6H30's I'm thinking of trying a couple of 6h30-DR tubes.

Art, thanks for your thoughts on the 3i-x and 32se. I still would be very interested in hearing the 32 series, but in no hurry. Another pleasant surprise is how quiet the BAT tube combo is. I'm really liking this.

Your impression of the VK-55 is no surprise at all. After 17 years with my previous tube amp (Beard), I was awestruck when I tried the VK-55. This was the first and only amp I auditioned I was so impressed. At some point I may consider a VK-3iX to complement the VK-55 as I expect the synergy is outstanding.

If you would like to take your pursuit of the holy grail another step consider an analog front end. The dynamics, transparency and presence (realistic reproduction of a live event) will astound you. It is a major commitment and a MAJOR pain in the neck compared to digital however, you will immediately understand why this Kool-Aid is without peer. In fact, I don't own a CDP!

Good luck, Mike

Congrats Classical1. I said the same thing when I 1st heard the VK55 (non SE). My VK200 had better bass slam but thats where it ended. It was paired with the 5i preamp. This combo has been the most musical my system has sounded.

Trcnetmsncom,

Thanks so much for your timely assistance...with guys like you around, this forum then is able to make all the differences .....