Hello, When I owned a Bat vk5i, I was running early 1960's Amperex 7308 white label PQ USA and 1958 Tungsol 5881's. It had plenty of bass slam. It was also musical, clear and detailed. It soundstaged well too. I attribute the bass slam to the Tungsol 5881's that helmed the 170 joule power supply. The Tungsol 5881's brought as much improvement to the preamp as the Amperex 7308's. I bought my 5881's through Andy of Vintage Tube Services and I wouldn't be surprised if he still has a few matched sets left. Several years ago, the cost for my mirror matched pair of 1958 Tungsol 5881's was around $100. Good luck with it. Nice preamp! Stan
Tubes for the BAT VK5i
I just got a BAT VK-5i here on audiogon and I'm very impressed with the unit. I hat d the tubes tested, though and they're about done for. I'm looking for tubes that will accentuate bass and detail/resolution. I'm figuring that the preamp's medeocre bass response is due to the very old tubes (they test about 58 % of new--time to go!)
I know this is going to be a big deal, but I need some ideas--and I also need to know wh. Suggestions?
Thanks!
Roland
I know this is going to be a big deal, but I need some ideas--and I also need to know wh. Suggestions?
Thanks!
Roland