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BAT amp + cheap pream vs BAT integrated vs Prima Luna integrated

Hi all, this is my first post ever here in Audiogon. I am going to buy my first proper Hifi setup and am really going bonkers with all the possible configurations and combinations, and tbh so little data. I tend to like detail so in the beginning i discarded tubes. Separate amp and preamp is a wish, having read only but praises about this. I have read many great things about Prima Luna and am considering tubes now, to be specific, the Evo 300 hybrid, which is the closest any integrated amp will get to separate amp and preamp. But there is an option i have not read about too often: GREAT amp (BAT VK 90t) and since this will break my budget, a small and cheap preamp like a Schiit Freya or another preamp that does not impact the sound of the amp negatively too much (with the wishful thinking of buying a proper BAT preamp in the future, god and wife allows). AND, to add complexity, this configuration vs the BAT VK80t integrated amp.

Any thoughts would be much appreciated!

tykozen
wharfy's avatar
wharfy
564 posts
 

@tykozen - You have A LOT of terrific recommendations. Reading through them, if you decide to go with separates I agree with the posters who say ATC sounds better with a solid state amp. In which case, getting an Ayre or Pass and pairing them with a tube pre-amp makes a lot of sense because Ayre, and Pass have both the power and tube-like qualities you desire. 

As far as pre-amps go decide on your overall sound preferences. Kinda like martinis-very dry, with a hint of vermouth or full flavor. You could go highly resolving and neutral--in which case get solid state amp and pre-amp; resolving with the soundstage a tube/JFET pre-amp will provide, or full tube pre-amp, which have more bloom/euphonics/"more musical".

I'll end with YMMV, because everyone has their preferences, and there are so many good amp/preamp choices and combos.

David

 

lmnop
79 posts
 

I got a used BAT-VK80t at a decent price about a year ago. Very happy with it. The remote can be wonky but the unit itself has been a steady performer. It’s got oomph but It runs very hot! It sounded good on all my speakers (ML Montis, Harbeth, JBL and Epos) Musicdirect seems to have it on sale quite a bit lately along with demo units. If I ever decide to increase my amp budget, I’d consider sticking with BAT.

For reference I also own these integrateds;

  • Cayin-A50t (tube)
  • Anthem STR (ss)
  • Naim Supernaught 3 (ss)
einsteindisguised
13 posts
 

Another strong vote for BAT here from a long term user. Recently upgraded my BAT VK30SE (tube) to the VK90 and have just agreed to purchase the Rex 500 (solid state) power amp, after demo against VITUS solid state and AllNic tube competition. The BAT power amp killed them both stone dead. I previously used modified Audion 845 tube monoblocks after the BAT pre but the Rex did absolutely everything I value better. The combination is the closest thing to holographic I’ve heard from 2 channel audio, and that’s through Coincident loudspeakers which are more than sensitive enough and an easy impedance load for the Audions.

However, if your budget is limited put more money into the pre-amp.

Post removed 
patrickalston
163 posts
 

I didn't see your budget, but there is a BAT VK-52SE here on Audiogon.  This is a reference level model that has an upgrade path the Rex series.  Add a single VK-60, and the right speakers, and you'll be very happy.  

There's also a beautiful pair of classic Krell KMA-160s for a reasonable price:  https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisbh66a-krell-kma-160-solid-state

 

 

 

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