Need help with upgrade path


I'm using a BAT VK-300x integrated with vr4jr speakers and need your advice on an upgrade path to balanced separates. I can try different amps while still using the pre-amp section of the integrated but I'm not sure it is up to the job. As it is now I can't audition a preamp so I plan on upgrading this later.

I'm looking for an amp with better bass control and more oomph while still being nimble and detailed on a budget of 3k to 5k. Some of the amps I'm considering: BAT VK-250 or VK-500, Parasound JC-1's, Ayre V-5xe or Spectron M III.

I appreciate your helpful insights in this quest.
stubby

Showing 1 response by tom_hankins

The Parasound JC-1s are very good amps. I owned them for three years. You will need some power from your wall to get them perform at there best. I used dedicated 20 amps lines (one for each amp) But think with the easier to drive VS speakers one 30amp or two 15amp lines would be plenty. They also run very hot. More so than the pure class A Krells I use now.
I replaced the JC-1s with the Ayre V-1XE. I enjoyed the tone, sweetness, and full sound of this amp more than the JC-1s. It will not need as much power to excel and is not quite as hot. I used both of these amps with a BAT VK-31SE preamp and they seemed well matched together.