ARC LS26 vs BAT VK-31se preamps

Both units are very good and you probably can't make a "wrong" choice. I went with the ARC LS26 and upgraded the tubes to NOS 6H30-DR's. A truly great preamp, best I've heard and made a huge improvement in my system.
Paul

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion

Pkubica,
Did the NOS 6H30-DR tubes make a big difference in the LS26 ? What kind of difference did you hear over the stock tubes? Where did you buy the NOS tubes ?
Thanks.

Which ss pwr. amps would make a great mate with a LS26?125-200 wps. Thanks

Dave, by power and slam, I mean that the BAT's bass region is more prodigeous.....it feels more powerful. The ARC on the other hand, goes just as deep in the bass, but is tighter and better defined, so it seems to be 'lightweight' compared to the BAT at first listen.

By more refined and articulate, I mean the ARC also has more extension and definition in the high's. The BAT may sound warmer, the ARC may sound livelier. The choice is yours. All around better choice? No. Better for some? Yes.
You need to decide what musical values are more important to you, bass and warmth, or detail and definition?
Sadly, even at these prices one has to make choices.

Happy hunting,
John