2. amps-preamps
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Choosing between 2 preamps

Hello

I have narrowed down my search to 2 preamps that comes in my budget.

BAT VK-31se

Atma Sphere MP 3 with phono stage(not sure which mk i sent a mail to Ralph)

Both around 2200-2300 dollars.

The BAT Capacitors have been changed to Audience Auricap, instead of 6 each side there are 2 of 10.0mfd 400vdc.

both sounds good, I heard the Atmasphere with my power and B&W 802 diamond, sound was pretty anemic , but i think my power couldn’t drive the speaker properly (AUDIO RESEARCH REF75se)

 

between both of them because I didnt listen side by side I cant really tell, also difference in all other gear except my Power amp.

 

I would be happy to get suggestions regarding it. Thank you

honeybadgertube
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,938 posts
 

$2200? Used? An MP3 is $5k plus new.

honeybadgertube OP
32 posts
 

@noromance yes used with phono i think its mk 3.2/3.1.

Aounds too high? I don’t live in the US and all US gear is pretty pricey here.

 

@elliottbnewcombjr I didn’t understand if you talked about the visually look of the MP-3 , sorry.

also can you link me about the soviet tubes? It’s just normal 6h30 sovtek/ elctro harmonic from what i know.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,628 posts
 

comments re: those tubes in this review

https://10audio.com/bat_31se/

yes, I was talking only about the visual appearance, and my desired features, atma-sphere's equipment seems top notch, from both their site and remarks from owners here.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,628 posts
 

if you get the serial number, then atma-sphere can tell you about it, including optional future upgrades if they recommend any.

willywonka
284 posts
 

I have the BAT VK-80 and I can assure you the 6H30 tubes are very good. Even much of the Audio Reasearch gear has used them!

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