2. amps-preamps
  3. 160345-2137

Is this an Upgrade or a Lateral Move?

So, what I think may be "upgradeitis" is starting to hit. My Mom passed away from COVID this past April and, as part of my grief protocol, I’ve been listening to A LOT of music. I’ve had a BAT VK-3i preamp since ’03 and really dig it. I was thinking about moving to a BAT VK-33 (not the "se") which is dual mono ... the VK-3i isn’t. Otherwise, the two preamps are very similar in structure (e.g., xlr and rca outputs/inputs), and the VK-33 appears to me to be somewhat of an update of the VK-3i. So, the question is ... would the move be an upgrade or a lateral move? BTW, I’m using BAT VK-225se power amp (I like the BAT synergy) and JA Pulsars (v1). What say ye?
rlb61
rlb61 OP
789 posts
 
Thanks to everyone for your condolences. They are very much appreciated. In this difficult time, music has been my solace, both from a listening and playing perspective. 
jond's avatar
jond
5,845 posts
 
My condolences on the loss of your mom. And music is so healing I am glad it's helping you rlb61.
mcmvmx
108 posts
 
I think you will be moving sideways as you say the circuits are practically the same . See if you might be able to actually hear the piece in your system before commiting yourself. If not try going for a more upper level Bat preamp . 
rlb61 OP
789 posts
 
@mcmvmx ... yes, the circuits appear to be similar. The only major difference that I can discern is that the VK-33 is dual mono and the VK-3i is not.
elliottbnewcombjr
5,461 posts
 
I am very sorry to hear of your loss, I wish you and the rest of your family the best dealing with it.


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