BAT VK-60, VK-55 or ????

The 60 is way better than the 55. 55 = cheaper, smaller iteration meant to satisfy those who found the 60/75 too big/expensive. Consider the vk-60 basically a VK-75 with a different name, since that is what it is. The VK-60 is a huge bargain. vk-55 = answer to the question no one was asking, IMNHSO.

Until recently I had a VK5i in combination with my VK75SE tube amp. It was a good combination, but errs towards loose bass and bloomy presence region. You can bring out lots more detail, neutrality, and bass control in the VK60 by switching from stock paper-in-oil coupling caps to V-Cap TFT teflon, and by replacing 2' intrachassis microphone cable IC with a better quality IC. With these lite mods the VK60 will be a keeper.

Dgarretson...Who can do these mods and how much are they? Thanks.

Sam

Anyone with the ability to desolder/solder can perform these mods, accessing through the bottom cover of the chassis without removing PCBs. Probably about 1 hour of work. You need 4 x .22uf/600V V-Cap @ $89 and $60 in triple-braided silver IC from Reference Audio Mods(or two 2' sections of any good balanced interconnect.) If V-Caps are outside your budget, substitute Russian FT-3 teflon caps from ebay @$5. Email me if you would like detailed instructions.

I have a VK31 pre-amp that I've used with ARC, VTL and BAT amps. (The BAT was a VK75, not the SE--which means I can play around with NOS tubes, which is fun with the BAT gear). That BAT combo was certainly synergistic. I would imagine you would be pleased, and I also would guess that the A'goners that are recommending the 60 over the 55 are probably right...if the 75 is basically the update for the 60, then you will probably like having a little extra testosterone with the 60.