Got a BAT VK-225se ... Holy Moly!

BAT VK-225se power amp, and all I can say is WOW!
Bass slam, grip, and control are simply astounding

 Comes from having a great power supply and bi-polar (BJT) output stage able to deliver big current when needed, even into low impedances.

"BAT: Bipolar transistors in its discrete Class AB output stage. Each channel uses six high-power bipolar output devices, boasting a combined rating of 1380 watts."  

Cheers George

@stereo-one ... it depends what you’re looking for. The VK-255se is a Mosfet amp and runs kind of hot (Victor told me that as well). Victor told me also that he thought the VK-225se was an under the radar amp, and that it hasn’t gotten the kind of attention it deserves. IIRC, the VK-250se also is a Mosfet amp and may run hot as well.

As to sound, I’ve always found BJTs (like the VK-225se) to have a very nice overall balance while Mosfets seem to have a bit more slam. Given that I have a small room, I felt that the 225se was more appropriate for my application. Of course, YMMV.

Remember that this is just a generalization, and could change based on how the circuit is implemented by the designer. You may want to try both in your system, if possible, and listen for a synergy that satisfies you. In any event, one really can’t go wrong with a BAT amp and pre-amp combo.

Rib61,
I recently bought the BAT VK-43SE.  Which is a great sounding preamp. I was hoping to find a 42SE  but could not.  From what I've been told it's pretty accurate that the 42SE is more tube like.  Where is the 43SE is definitely more three-dimensional with a lower noise floor.   The highs at times are a bit harsh for me.  I auditioned The Mcintosh MC152 which sounded amazing with the BAT VK 43SE.  Very balanced but I can't remember if it softens the highs which is what I was looking for.  At that time I was having a turntable issue.  I now have had the VK-225SE which gave me a little more rich deep bass.  More of a little punch that some of my CDs and records needed In my opinion.  But the characteristics have changed.  Now I thing the VK 225SE Is a little too bloomy in bass.  The Macintosh MC152 was much more Refined. That added to the three-dimensional sound of the VK-43SE.  So Right now I'm a little confused About the VK-225SE.  You mentioned Transformer hum of which I just noticed recently.  And the noise floor is much higher.  At the beginning with the VK-225SE it was very low and quiet.   The VK 225SE Volume levels are much lower with the 43SE on both sources.  I did like the Mac because right now the BAT sounds a little dark.   I'm wondering if the Mac would round off the highs a little more.  Any thoughts?

Brand matching can’t be better.....I have an all Ayre system and have confidence my system is at its optimum too