BAT VK30SE, VK50se or SF Line 3se

I have not heard the SF 3se, but have compared the BATs to other SF preamps in the past and the BATs won hands down in my system.

T=I found the VK-30se to be wonderful, but there is a big difference between it and the VK-50SE. The VK-50SE has much greater extension and control. Both are the quietest tube preamps I have ever listened to and seem to me to be very neutral. Very little euphony.

If you need a BAT preamp, call Jim at (425)454-2279. He has always treated me exceptionally well. Tell him you spoke with Jonathan and I am sure he will be good to you.

Good Luck!

I demo'd both the VK30SE and the 50SE. 30SE is great, clean sounding with lots of microdynamics, however the 50SE is in another league. No comparison between the 2 as far as soundstage. For the last 6 months I have been in audio bliss, without the "upgrade bug". Try it, you'll see!

Paul

I have not heard the Line 3se and only had the chance the hear the Line 3 in a dealer system. Although the system had the same speakers as I use, the amps and source were different.

I have heard the BAT line 5i, 30se, 50se in my dealers system and my own. The 50SE is the best preamp I have heard, and I have auditioned quite a few CJ, AR, ML etc. However, I would say that it absolutely must have a perfect system around it, from cables to components to power source to isolation. The problem is that some people buy the 50se thinking it will make the rest of their components sound better....belive me it does not. I think the 5i or the line 3 would be better at this since you can get NOS tubes to message the sound an compensate for other shortfalls in your system. But, if you have a top notch setup (I don't mean in $$$, but in sound) you will not be disappointed...it is that good.