cary slp-98L vs bat vk3i

has anybody compared these two preamps? is the cary a cut above? or is the bat the way to go? thanks

dpm234012-24-2005 12:06am

bob_bundus Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,834 posts 12-24-2005 at 10:28am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I was very disappointed with the Cary SLP98L but haven't compared with a BAT. However a Golden Tube SEP2 made the Cary sound like trash. The Cary was just awful with stock tubes; I never did try any upgrade tubes; resold it immediately. ymmv
gmood1 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,251 posts 12-24-2005 at 01:58pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I've auditioned only one of the Cary tubed preamps which was enough for me. Very fuzzy and slow sounding unit..it did have the stock tubes.It was a fairly current model not sure if it's the same model number as the one your referring to though. It was very disappointing!
loontoon Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 301 posts 12-24-2005 at 03:40pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Unless you have a completely over the top high end tipped up system. The 3i isn't a really tooby unit. Toob rolling only helps a little. The unit with modern stock toobs is excellent. I run gray top RCA 6v6 and Amperex 6922's in mine but it sounds great with the maligned Philips JAN 6922's. Buy the BAT and don't look back loon