Your Thoughts on the BAT VK-3i

Any thoughts on the BAT VK-3i almost 20 years after its introduction? Is it still a relevant preamp or has it been surpassed within its class?

rlb6101-11-2018 3:44am

mattmiller Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,479 posts 01-11-2018 at 05:11am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I have listened to a lot of pre amps and the BAT never did it for me, maybe the 6922 driven ones are good but the super tube 6H30's are very dry and uninspiring sounding in my opinion. Pre amps from McIntosh Labs, Manley Labs, Doge Audio, Dehavilland Ultraverve III, and Modwright, I felt offered much more in terms of tonal beauty and top end extension with exceptional mid range and tight defined bass. Matt M
dweller Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 3,735 posts 01-11-2018 at 05:48pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I'd have to agree that commercial grade 6H30 tubes leave a lot to be desired. The pre-2000 "DR" military grade tubes ($300/ea from the BAT stash) are totally different animals. Sumptuous tone, deep bass and extended highs. You get what you pay for...
rlb61 OP Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 742 posts 01-11-2018 at 06:38pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete FYI, the VK-3i uses four 6922 and two 6V6 tubes. There are no 6H30s, thank goodness.