Well, I’ve owned one since 1998 so I really can’t tell you if it “holds up” to contemporary products because I haven’t compared to any others in my system. But the fact that I’ve not really been compelled to replace it in 19 years says something about it.
In that same time, been through three pair of speakers, two sets of amps, three turntables, four phono stages, four cartridges, three tonearms, a couple DACs and a couple SACD players—so not as though I am without some a’phile nervosa. FWIW, the VK-3i is probably the lowest priced component in my system today.
As dweller notes, the VK-3i is not an “SE” product and therefore does not use the 6H30 super tubes. You can roll to your heart‘s content.
Additionally, the 3i can be configured with an onboard phono stage. It’s decent, but not stellar. Subsequently, I have had a VK-P5, Avid Pellar, and now a Parasound JC-3, but did use the built-in stage (VK-P3) for a number of years.
More importantly is BAT’s support and service. I previously owned a VK-200 amp which I returned to have recapped, and more recently sent back one of my VK-60 monoblocks for repair (nearly 20 years old). Great to be able to still get service and extend new life after all those years. In both cases, heard directly from Viktor Khomenko (the VK in the model designations) about the repairs, cost and some other suggested work while the “patient was on the table.” Cost was reasonable and turnaround was fast.
