2. amps-preamps
  3. 193130-187018

Choosing between 2 preamps

Hello

I have narrowed down my search to 2 preamps that comes in my budget.

BAT VK-31se

Atma Sphere MP 3 with phono stage(not sure which mk i sent a mail to Ralph)

Both around 2200-2300 dollars.

The BAT Capacitors have been changed to Audience Auricap, instead of 6 each side there are 2 of 10.0mfd 400vdc.

both sounds good, I heard the Atmasphere with my power and B&W 802 diamond, sound was pretty anemic , but i think my power couldn’t drive the speaker properly (AUDIO RESEARCH REF75se)

 

between both of them because I didnt listen side by side I cant really tell, also difference in all other gear except my Power amp.

 

I would be happy to get suggestions regarding it. Thank you

honeybadgertube
honeybadgertube OP
32 posts
 

@noromance yes used with phono i think its mk 3.2/3.1.

Aounds too high? I don’t live in the US and all US gear is pretty pricey here.

 

@elliottbnewcombjr I didn’t understand if you talked about the visually look of the MP-3 , sorry.

also can you link me about the soviet tubes? It’s just normal 6h30 sovtek/ elctro harmonic from what i know.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,630 posts
 

comments re: those tubes in this review

https://10audio.com/bat_31se/

yes, I was talking only about the visual appearance, and my desired features, atma-sphere's equipment seems top notch, from both their site and remarks from owners here.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,630 posts
 

if you get the serial number, then atma-sphere can tell you about it, including optional future upgrades if they recommend any.

willywonka
284 posts
 

I have the BAT VK-80 and I can assure you the 6H30 tubes are very good. Even much of the Audio Reasearch gear has used them!

ghdprentice
7,292 posts
 

I would work on speaker positioning. Your Audio Research Ref 75 has plenty of power for your speakers. Tube amps like this are very powerful. They have deep and nuanced low end. 

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