Tubes for the BAT VK5i

Agree with Georgmg, the Tungsol 5881 and Amperex tubes are the way to go for the Vk-5i. For the sdj8, I went with the Orange Globe logo mixed in with some A-frame of the same type. The Orange Globe logo's overall smooth characteristic, along with the better definition of the A-frame give a nice smooth, yet focused sound. I've gotten all my tubes from Brent Jessee's recording Studio in the past. Good luck and have fun.

I agree with both of the last posts! I have a BAT Vk-5i and swapped out the tubes for 5881 Tung Sol's and Sylvania Jan's- sound was tinny and sharp. I then bought Amperex Orange Globe 7308 and my system came to life. Incredible soundstage and improved highs and mids. I also added a Lite DAC 60 upgraded by Pacific Valve and swapped out the 6922's for a set of 7308 RCA's and the smoothness and sweetness improved even more. I am using a Sony XA-777es as transport. Best and Enjoy!

Hello, When I owned a Bat vk5i, I was running early 1960's Amperex 7308 white label PQ USA and 1958 Tungsol 5881's. It had plenty of bass slam. It was also musical, clear and detailed. It soundstaged well too. I attribute the bass slam to the Tungsol 5881's that helmed the 170 joule power supply. The Tungsol 5881's brought as much improvement to the preamp as the Amperex 7308's. I bought my 5881's through Andy of Vintage Tube Services and I wouldn't be surprised if he still has a few matched sets left. Several years ago, the cost for my mirror matched pair of 1958 Tungsol 5881's was around $100. Good luck with it. Nice preamp! Stan