Classic BAT vs. Audio Research


For those who have heard them, how does a classic all-tube design like a BAT VK-150SE stack up against a new Audio Research design, like a Reference 150?
imgoodwithtools
Correction: until I spend time w/ the ARC ref6, the Ref5SE is the finest pre-amp.
The "darkness" perceived as house sound in BAT VK75 & VK150 amps is largely a consequence of the Jensen PIO coupling caps. Light, speed, and precision is let in by replacing those caps. It’s a simple, economical, and effective upgrade.
The 150 is a classic amp that can be modified to sound like one of the best.  Do you know how to solder?