2. amps-preamps
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BAT VK-60, VK-55 or ????

Been considering making the switch to a tube amp after borrowing a friends VK-55. It doesn't have quite the bass control my VK-200 did but "Oh does it have everything else". I have noticed the VK-60 is less expensive than the 55 but does it sound better than the 55? Or, are there other tube amps that don't run as hot and sound just as good for around the same price range? My preamp is a VK5i and speakers are Tyler Acoustics Linbrooks at 90db effiency. Thanks in advance.
Ag insider logo xs@2xsamzx12
trcnetmsncom
431 posts
 
Hello Samzx12,

Check with BAT on this but I believe the third transformer is on the underside of the unit. Victor told me once that through a more efficient design of the circuit he was able to squeeze a few more watts out of the VK-55 than the VK-60.

Overall, IMHO BAT tube amps are some of the very best sounding tube amps on the market.

Enjoy,

Tom
dgarretson
2,599 posts
 
Classical1,

Perhaps I was unclear. In addition to 6H30, the -SE versions have an extra PCB with a separate transformer and three separately regulated circuits for tube filaments.
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
samzx12,

not sure anyone commmented here on "Does the 60 suffer from any reliability issues?"

I have ran BAT tube amps for about 8-9 years. Started off with a VK60 for a few years, then a 75SE, last 2 years, 150SE's. Other than a few 6c33b tubes arcing and popping fuses (it's just the tube here, those tubes are that way, which takes about 5 min to fix), they have been rock solid.

I don't think you have to worry on reliability. Just keep a few fuses handy (radio shack) and a extra 6c33b tube...
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