2. amps-preamps
  3. 147241-2137

To Sell or Keep?

I'm awaiting delivery of a Don Sachs Model 2 preamp, which should arrive tomorrow; it will be replacing my BAT VK-3i, which I have had for about 15 years. Here's my dilemma ... if I really dig the DS, should I sell the BAT or keep it? On the one hand, BAT equipment has become pretty expensive (new and used), so I likely won't be able to get back into it if I choose to do so later on. On the other hand, if the DS preamp is really as awesome as claimed, then the BAT likely will be placed in storage. What would you do if you were in my position? Thanks for your help.
rlb61
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donjr
1,339 posts
 
Sell the BAT. Keeping a spare of something that's repairable makes no sense. If you're going to use it once in awhile keep it, but don't keep it in anticipation of the new pre breaking down. 
mesch
3,530 posts
 
I would not be in a hurry to sell it until I have listened to the new pre for a good length of time. Have regretted selling a piece of gear in haste, more than buying one. Doubt the BAT will depreciate much over the next year. 
rlb61 OP
792 posts
 
I took delivery of the DS yesterday. Initial impressions ... more height and width to soundstage, more air around instruments and voices, lots of micro- detail, and more b@lls to my system. No doubt, the "b@lls" part (in terms of slam and impact) comes from the large output caps running my low impedance power amp and sub. Only have about 6 hours on the preamp, but I like what I hear so far. DS says the unit really opens up after about 50 hours, so we shall see. It's very different from the BAT, but I will not be in a hurry to sell the BAT, if at all. Evaluation periods can take some time.
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