2. amps-preamps
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ARC LS2 versus B.A.T. VK-3i

Can anyone tell me how these two pre's compare? I will be using them with my Bryston 4b SST on Thiels cs2.4 speakers. I currently own the ARC LS2, but I am looking for a better pre. I am looking for a more airy sound, more transparent, but not too harsh.

thanks in advance
nl12048
nl12048 OP
8 posts
 
@Jim,

Did you audition the VK3i?

Mark
jim_wojno
8 posts
 
Mark, I decided to order a Pass Labs X2.5 preamp, didn't listen to the VK3i; from reading I think the Pass will be better and won't have the heat (in a cabinet, VK3i runs hot) or tube rolling to worry about. I'll post what I think of the Pass after it arrives. - Jim
curio's avatar
curio
305 posts
 
Mark, I decided to order a Pass Labs X2.5 preamp ..

I don't know VTL or BATVK3i but I have the Thiels 2.4 and Pass Labs X1 (Parasound Halos JC1 amps) and it sounds fantastic
emergingsoul
1,165 posts
 

Bat has six or so tubes, uses a lot of energy. Never understood why certain preamps have so many tubes versus only two tubes that are used in extremely well regarded preamps. More tubes leads to a lot more heat and in the summer Will complete with the air conditioner and make things uncomfortable. The bat t Rex it’s two separate boxes totaling 16 tubes, this seems really nutty

Conrad Johnsen only has two tubes, VAC has two tubes.

Anyone understand why there is a need for these preamps ( ARC or bat) to have more than two or four tubes?

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