Classic BAT vs. Audio Research

I can solder. What is the mod?

Hi imgoodwithtools
If you’ve got the dough, go Ref 150 se or GS 150. I have a Ref 150 which I purchased when it came out. I later dropped KT 150s from ARC into the unit to obtain what I have been told by ARC insiders gets me 90% of the way to a Ref 150 se. The Kt 150s were a noticeable improvement but not as noticeable as when I went from my Ref 110 to my Ref 150 which was huge. If I were buying from scratch, I’d buy the GS 150 or Ref 150se. I believe some members here have compared the 2 and preferred the GS 150 by a slight margin. Scroll around and I’m sure you’ll find those comparisons.
OTOH, the Ref 150 is a great amp with KT 120s. If the price is right, consider purchasing the unit with KT 120s and  and replacing them with KT 150s in the future so the cost can be spread out. I assure you that all of the above options will provide you with great satisfaction.

Thanks for the insight, gpgr4blu. Right now I have the opportunity to buy a used ARC Reference 150 for $7500, or a pair of BAT VK-150SE amps for $6K. I've always been a solid state guy. I currently run a pair of Ayre MX-R Twenties that I truly love and respect. But I've never heard a tube amp in my system, and I thought It might be a fun winter project. I'm leaning toward the ARC Reference 150. I figure if I like it enough to keep it, I could always get the SE upgrade when it needs tubes.