Hello Maril555,
First I should point out to you I am a long time big fan of BAT. So please take this in consideration when reading my post. However my loyalty is not blind and is IMO for very good reasons.
Although I never heard the CAT amps I know they are well respected and felt to be by many among the best that you can buy.
But, it's also of my opinion the BAT tube amps can and do compete in the best of the best at any price catogorey. I've heard well respected OTL amps costing roughly twice what my BAT 150se amps cost in 2 different systems, both of which almost identical to my own on several occasions, and while to me they most certainly did some things better, the BAT was IMO clearly superior to them in other areas.
The taste in music, the particular system, and the priorities that are most important to the listener are all IMO very important factors. I know we all use these forums for direction and guidance, to learn from others experience....but....honestly the only way to know for sure what is right for you is to get both amps in your system and for you to compare and let your ears decide.
Also, since money doesn't seem to be an issue, and unless because of constraints due to heat or the room, why not consider the BAT 150se instead of the 75se? Yes, not only will the 150se handle dynamic peaks with greater ease due to the extra power. but they also sound much better at all volume levels.
Good luck in your search, I wish you the best and hope you find what works for you.
Cheers,
Tom
First I should point out to you I am a long time big fan of BAT. So please take this in consideration when reading my post. However my loyalty is not blind and is IMO for very good reasons.
Although I never heard the CAT amps I know they are well respected and felt to be by many among the best that you can buy.
But, it's also of my opinion the BAT tube amps can and do compete in the best of the best at any price catogorey. I've heard well respected OTL amps costing roughly twice what my BAT 150se amps cost in 2 different systems, both of which almost identical to my own on several occasions, and while to me they most certainly did some things better, the BAT was IMO clearly superior to them in other areas.
The taste in music, the particular system, and the priorities that are most important to the listener are all IMO very important factors. I know we all use these forums for direction and guidance, to learn from others experience....but....honestly the only way to know for sure what is right for you is to get both amps in your system and for you to compare and let your ears decide.
Also, since money doesn't seem to be an issue, and unless because of constraints due to heat or the room, why not consider the BAT 150se instead of the 75se? Yes, not only will the 150se handle dynamic peaks with greater ease due to the extra power. but they also sound much better at all volume levels.
Good luck in your search, I wish you the best and hope you find what works for you.
Cheers,
Tom