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Opinions: Used BAT VK-51SE or New VK-23SE

Looking for any BAT owners out there that would have an opinion on which piece I should go with.  I can get a used VK-51SE for slightly less than a new VK-23SE.  The 51 is from ~2003 if my google searches were correct.  The 23 is obviously newer which means newer technology.  But that 51 was their top dog back in the day and all the reviews I can find rave about it.  The 51 is factory refurbished as well.

I'm leaning towards the 51, but would appreciate any thoughts BAT owners would have.  
snafujg
snafujg OP
34 posts
 
I should have put the rest of my chain.  This will be for my 2 channel, which is currently running from my Emotiva XMC-1 processor.  The BAT would become my Preamp for all 2 channel then:
Emotiva XPR-2 Amp
Focal Electra 1028 BE II tower
JL F113 sub
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,497 posts
 
All I can say is that running a BAT preamp with Emotiva power amp will result in a very dry, without good top end extension and hard to listen to at higher volumes.It would be good to get a warmer sounding pre to go with the Emotiva amp. In my opinion. McIntosh is the first name that pops into my head but their are others (Audio Research, Modwright,)that would give you a warmer more natural sound and much more musical overall. I have owned the BAT 31se with 6H30's and was highly unimpressed, "super tubes" Good thing BAT is the only one who has these tubes "super dry" if you ask me.



Matt M
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,385 posts
 

I concur with mattmiller.

dweller's avatar
dweller
3,781 posts
 
I've been using a VK-300SE integrated around 13-14 years and I love it. Not dry at all. Just sounds like music. I did spring for the NOS "DR" 6H30 tubes which make a difference.
As for OP, I'd be looking at a used (good luck) VK-33SE.
Uncle Kevin is ga-ga over it. Watch youtube video and find out why.
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