Modwright LS 36.5 or BAT VK-51SE

Bugredmachine:

I've never heard either of these tubes, or either of the preamps! I live in northern NH and there isn't much access to demos or dealers around here, so I am going on input I've received and reviews. I would love to hear about the differences between the two models of tubes these two different preamps use. Thanks,

My system is:

Pass XA-60.5 amps
Esoteric P-05 transport
Esoteric D-03 DAC
Totem Hawk speakers
Pass Labs X0.2 preamp (upgrading now)

Roor,
TRL Dude is a single ended design and Paul can add all the pseudo XLR inputs/outputs that you need.

IMO, neither the Modwright nor the BAT will produce a sound appreciably different from the Pass preamp to warrant the expenditure. These products approach the nexus where tubes sound close to solid state and vice versa.

Tvad:

I appreciate the input. Do you think a balanced TRL Dude would be a better choice?

Do you think a balanced TRL Dude would be a better choice?
Roor (Threads | Answers | This Thread)

Having never heard one, I can't say. However, you should be aware that it is not a balanced design, which Knghifi alluded to when he mentioned pseudo balanced XLR inputs/outputs.

Contact TRL and find out if they would be using transformer coupling to convert to balanced operation, or if the XLR outputs/inputs would simply be wired single ended (like RCA>XLR adapters).

Also, ask about the output impedance specification, so you are certain it will match properly with the XA-60.5 input impedance.