The vk-5i and vk-50(SE) do not have optional phono boards. You must buy an outboard unit such as bat's p5 or p10.
The vk-3i and vk-30(SE) do.
The vk-5i has a fairly different sonics to the 50SE. They both have the bat 'house sound' which is a gloriously warm midrange, feathery well defined high notes, and excellent bass. Also, to paraphrase J Scull, the music has a 'breathing' quality. The 50SE is more transparent and revealing. The 5i has a little more of a 'glow' or vintage tube sound to it. I do run NOS tubes. One of the unique characteristics of bat tube equipment is that it produces extended high notes, yet remains warm and listenable. SS preamps can be a little 'too accurate' when playing high notes.
The vk-3i and vk-30(SE) do.
The vk-5i has a fairly different sonics to the 50SE. They both have the bat 'house sound' which is a gloriously warm midrange, feathery well defined high notes, and excellent bass. Also, to paraphrase J Scull, the music has a 'breathing' quality. The 50SE is more transparent and revealing. The 5i has a little more of a 'glow' or vintage tube sound to it. I do run NOS tubes. One of the unique characteristics of bat tube equipment is that it produces extended high notes, yet remains warm and listenable. SS preamps can be a little 'too accurate' when playing high notes.