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

Mark,

I am a Bat dealer, and feel the upgrade is definetly worth the extra expense. If you are looking at used, try to find the discontinued 51SE truly a ref piece. Good luck,

John

Hi Mark,

From my experience with BAT I do find the SE models to be more accurate and true to the source. They also have better extension at both extremes, dynamics, with better resolution of detail. All very good things!

I would think that VK32se gives the user plenty of control tailoring the sound to one's taste and system with the other options in tube choice. I advise going with the SE version.

Word has it with regards to performance that the 51se vs. 32se scenario is a give and take situation, where the new 32se has a more natural organic rendition of texture/timbre of tone. I don't know this from first hand experience.

I agree with your choice of sticking with BAT as I also have found their sonic virtues to be so well balanced and on target with my taste on how I hear sound.

As far as BAT the company? I cannot praise them highly enough! Good luck with whatever you decide on.

Best,

Tom

I also have a VK-3iX. I upgraded it with Super-Pak, Six-Pak, and larger SE transformer so that I can stay with 6922s. It is a bit more expensive this way, but I like the idea of tube rolling.

I just got a set of Amperex Orange Globe 6DJ8s made in Holland. They are awesome!

Thanks for your responses so far..

51se vs. 32se scenario is a give and take situation, where the new 32se has a more natural organic rendition of texture/timbre of tone.

Tom, I really liked the 51SE and if in fact the 32SE does the above that's what I'm looking for. I have to say I'm in no way disappointed with the 3-IX. I think it's a very nice preamp.

I had a 51SE once - best pre I've owned. I like BAT's service, build quality and am very anxious to try my first tube amp. The BAT equipment I've had just sounds 'right' to me so any other thoughts on the 32/32SE would be appreciated.
Thanks - Mark

Hello Mark,

Congratulations on the new BAT VK-55se amp! May I suggest to take your time and enjoy the upgrade and the break-in process. Give yourself time to discern the differences you'll be hearing and to learn your likes and (possibly) dislikes from the change to the VK-55se.

Once you feel that you have thoroughly absorbed and lived with the sonic impact from inserting the VK-55se into your system, only then would I look forward to the preamp.

Mark, my reason for offering this advice is that you may have different feelings and opinions on what you'll want from a preamp upgrade until after fully experiencing the changes the new amp has made. For example you may find yourself wanting a more lively upfront presentation or one that is a little more laid back and allows you to listen into the music. From my experience these types of things take the investment of time to surface, until fully appreciating the differences the amp has made my advice would be to wait on the pre. Wish you all the best in this process ....

Enjoy,

Tom