High end tube Preamp under $4k used that competes

Tpreaves, in case there's a long drought before an 05 appears, I just wanted to have some ideas of what else is out there that is similar Thanks

Sorry, I forgot to include that I'd prefer a balanced preamp that also has rca inputs.

01-29-10: Dwhitt
according to inputs....the audio electric supply is a great pre.

What do you mean by inputs?

Tom_hankins, I've read that various BAT preamps have strong bass (which I'm looking for) in a tube preamp, but they are also known for being dark. This isn't the case with the VK-51SE?

The Sira has eighteen tubes. Rather daunting for a guy who just entered the tube preamp kingdom.

It seems through recent and older threads there's some agreement that BAT has some tube (and solid state) bass and weight champs in their stable. There are so many BAT tube preamps it's hard to keep track of which models to consider. What's the one or two that excel in providing clarity, transparency and top to bottom extension; bass weight and some tube sound?

Thanks guys. What about the reliability of a unit as old as the BAT VK-51se? And heat, does it run hot? Hard on tubes? You can't leave it on after a listening session if you want to preserve those tubes, can you?

Al, I agree with you.

Flyfish thanks for the suggestion. However, I've been the route of having modifications done before, and if or when the time comes to sell the modified gear, you'll lose your shirt on the funds invested in the modification, and end up selling for what a stock unit would sell for.

At this point, with no ability to audition, I'm torn between the BAT VK51-SE and the Cary SLP-05.

Actually Jmcgrogan2 you're mistaken, I am interested in a preamp that competes or betters the Cary SLP 05. With a six year old around the house, all those exposed tubes with the SLP 05 would be a constant point of fascination that would probably lead to touching. So a preamp with covered tubes is more practical.

Jmcgrogan2, if I end up with a preamp with exposed tubes and no cage I'm willing to sternly warn my young one to keep his hands off, so that's not a deal breaker, just not as practical as a covered unit. My son has actually been pretty good about "hands off" regarding my stereo gear. You are right, only I can decide which preamps compete and which to try, but feedback from users helps with making a "try-it" list.