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That Transformational piece of Gear We All Wish For

I suspect most of the music/audio lovers on this web site have wished for that piece of gear that literally transforms their system?  I know i have.  I have been going down this audio rabbit hole since the mid 70’s, and there have been a few pieces that made a really nice improvement to my system (the PS Audio P20 Power plant being one of them).  However (and this comment only applies to pre-amps and amps and no other category), nothing that I can ever recall has so energized and improved my system in so many ways as my new pre-amp.  I have owned some really fine brands in the past including Pass,  Coda, ARC, PS Audio,  Rowland, and more, but now I am a BAT Man for sure.   The new pre-amp is the BAT VK-80 and I love that beast.  I hope everyone reading this will get a chance someday to try one in their system.  I know he is a controversial figure,  but Kevin Deal's review of this piece is so right on.  He really loves it too and rightfully so.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iv2swa55JXo

 

My system consists of:

Thiel 3.7 speakers

Coda 16 power amp

PS Audio DSD DAC MK II

PS Audio Perfect Wave transport

PS Audio P20 power plant

BAT VK 80 preamp

128x128ronkent
ronkent's avatar
ronkent OP
366 posts
 

you would be surprised at the improvement it can make.  it is not a power conditioner,  it is a power re-conditioner.   I would try one as they have a totally easy return policy if you do not like it.  i have owned probably five of their power plants since the premier power plant came out way back.  i consider the P20 to be a core part of my system.  

Post removed 
whitecap
121 posts
 

Nice to see all the well deserved praise for BAT.   I was hesitant to add my 2cents here, but it is on point.   The VK80 is terrific for sure, we had one for about a year.  But the REX was one of those transformational changes that we all hope for.  

ronkent's avatar
ronkent OP
366 posts
 

hi WhiteCap,   what REX did you get as there are a few.   i really am contemplating a REX 300 amp in 2025 but it has to be mighty good to beat my Coda 16 amp.

mammothguy54's avatar
mammothguy54
949 posts
 

@ronkent  If you really want to beat your Coda 16 then settle only for the best solid state amp from BAT, the REX-500.  I am not so sure that the REX-300 will do you any better than what you already have (the CODA 16 is fabulous).  I am considering selling my fairly efficient speakers (next year) and opting for a speaker that is more power demanding.  At the top my short list is the Sonus Faber, Amati G5.  At that time, I would sell my BAT VK-90T power amp and get the REX-500 power amp.  Time will tell, but first up is completing the new sound room addition.  I just received the construction quote yesterday and it is within my financial plan.  Ultimately, my end-game system, in total.  Life is too short, enjoy it while we are able.

 

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