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Got BAT VK-60 ...now what?

Recently, I bought a BAT VK-60 - which in fact, didn't even arrive, yet - but I'm already eager to persue further upgrades.
My current system is : AP Virgo, Sim Audio Moon I-5 integrated, Rega Planet CDP, Audio Analysis Silver Oval 9 speaker cable, HT ProSil mkII ICs.
Temporarily, I plan to run the I-5 as pre amp, but eventually I'd like to replace it with a 'real' pre amp. An obvious choice would be a BAT pre and I did already some research here on A'gon and Audio Asylum, but quite frankly this left me a bit confused. There are tons of different models (VK3i, VK30, VK30SE, VK5i, VK50, VK50SE...) and I simply wondered which one would be the best choice. Unfortunately, I can't afford the VK50SE (I want to stay in the 2000$ range). So, which one is better for instance? The VK30SE or the VK5i? How do they all compare to each other? I'm also entertaining the idea of getting a Pass Aleph P (incidentially, one just popped up for sale). Would this be a good match with the VK-60?
Any other suggestions would be welcome, too. Oh, and what kind of power conditioner or at least surge protector works well the VK-60 (I know BAT recommends plugging it straight into the wall)?
Thanks
pipetman
tireguy
1,964 posts
 
S2k_dude I asked this question along time ago(not even seen in the "my resent threads" section), and the majority of the people felt the 5i is a better performer then the 30, not sure about the 30se though. It has been a while and I could be mistaken but I don't believe so, my memory is not as good as it once was. I don't think you can go wrong either way! there both great products. If you plan on using an analog source the VK-30/se would be the most cost effective way to go. Judging by the coments made maybe I have things backwards, I will try to search through my threads and I will post a link to when I asked this question(I think it was close to a year ago) so you can see some other responses.
nar_com
70 posts
 
Congratulations, it's a great amp and it's a very good match for your speakers.
1. According to old discussion on audioasylum vk5i is much better than vk30 and some people prefer vk30se over vk5i and some not,especially with upgraded tubes.Run search in general asylum for 5i and 30Se and read yourself.
2.I'm sure you will be happy with either of these preamps. Whatever you choose, the limitation in your system will be your CD player.Start saving for BAT. ;-)
3.FYI, upgrade from vk5i to vk5se cost $2000.Tube rolling in the 5i is not cheap either.
4. If you are planning to buy used, then vk5i is much better deal. They go for under $2000 with remote,often even with NOS tubes. If you decide to stretch your budget to around $3,000 I would suggest to look around for a good deal(maybe demo model) on vk30SE form authorized dealer. 5 year BAT warranty is not transferable.

BTW,My rig is all BAT vkP5,vkD5se -> vk5i -> vk60 monos. Sounds great.
Good luck with your search.
sharri
59 posts
 
I also have an all BAT system - D5SE, 30SE, and stereo 60.
You can't really go wrong with a BAT preamp! The 30SE gives a little more flexibility than a 5i 'cause it has some single ended connections. Though I've not done a direct comparison to a 5i w/30SE, the sound of a 30SE is absolutely fabulous. Lately, 30SE's have come down in price here on A'gon so if you can find the extra money, you won't be disappointed.
Steve
sharri
59 posts
 
Forgot to mention your concerns about power conditioner, etc. With the VK-60 it's best to follow Victor's recommendation and plug straight in to the wall. You could use a PS Audio Ultimate Outlet, however, as that does not restrict any power and does offer protection.
Steve
pipetman OP
45 posts
 
Thanks for all the great advice. I actually got my VK-60 now and listened to it for a while and since then I have a big smile on my face. It's sooo much better compared to that SS integrated (which is still working as pre amp, though). So much more musical, so much more enjoyable. Guess, I've become tube lover thanks to all you A'goners (was always reading the tubes vs. SS threads and became curious). The system is still not perfect, though, but I keep looking for a nice pre amp and eventually I will dump the Rega as well. Concerning the pre I will narrow it down to the 5i or the 30SE - and I still keep the Pass Aleph P in mind. From what I heard it's a more than excellent pre and usually comes at a very reasonable price (especially in comparison to the 30SE). So, if you have to sell one... (not that I want to disregard all that good advice that was given to me). Thanks again.
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