Balanced Audio Technology (Bat) Vk33se

@bluethinker - Nothing but love for the VK-255SE. I used tube amps most of my life (now 70). Audio Research Classic 60, VT-100, VT-100 Mk-III, two Almarro low-power amps. I've concluded that tube amps, as good as they are, tend to homogenize textures making things too smooth sometimes.

The VK-255SE does everthing I want, is not crazy priced (used) and mates well with my VK-33SE. Read about the design of this amp on BAT website for more info. They say converting to mono doesn't increase wattage much but doubles the current. Would like to hear that sometime. Thanks 

I found and took a leap of faith and bought a like new vk-33se. I have bought used gear in the past and was disappointed with the purchase. Not this time, Dweller is spot on. Like Dweller, This also is the best sounding preamp I’ve ever had in my system. I’m surprised there are no professional reviews on this preamp. It’s not bright nor forward or fat and boring. It seems to play everything I throw at it beautifully. I can’t find anything it does wrong, it’s purely musical. 
Steve at Bat answered all my questions politely even when I was asking about a used vk-33se. 
The preamp is built like a tank. It weighs 40 pounds and looks as good as it sounds   
list price is $10,000, and can be found used for $4500-$5500. In this crazy high priced hobby it is a steel used. 
So there it is, I easily can recommend this pre to anyone shopping for a preamp. 
 

Starboard

To correct myself, the vk-33 has been discontinued and replaced by the new Vk-80 for $10000. 
starboard

I bought the VK-33 (not the SE) because I wanted to tube roll. I have it paired with a BAT VK-225se power amp. This combo sounds astounding, and I never cease to be amazed at how good BAT gear sounds. Built like a tank, too. 

Sorry for the slight thread drift but on the back-cover of the last two issues of S'Phile BAT has been advertising something to the effect that they offer "solid state, for the very best in audio". Kind of surprised me since BAT sold lots of tube designs, much like Atma-Sphere proclaiming it's Class-D amp is the best amp they have ever made. 

Forgive me for being a skeptic, but the bottom line is the bottom line. If tubes are not readily available, than what other option is there for a manufacturer that wishes to remain in business?