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Preamp: Cary versus BAT

Can someone tell me how Cary preamps sound versus BAT? I do have a VK-200 which I like very much but not sure if a BAT preamp is the best match. By that I mean some people think BAT preamps are a little on the darker side or too warm. I have in mind from Cary, the SLP2002 or 308 and the BAT, the VK3i or 5i. I like a neutral or slightly to the warm side of neutral sound with nice detail and dynamics. Low level detail is a must.

BAT VK200 amp
Jolida Music Envoy preamp
Cary 308 CDP
Tyler Acoustic Linbrook speakers
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islandear
208 posts
 
The VK3i is the ideal match for the 200. Changing out the tubes will alter the sonic characteristics. I used this combo for about five years, mated to highly articulate Meridian cdps. Low level detail retrieval was one of the combo's strengths. You can find the 3i for about $1K.
glai's avatar
glai
446 posts
 
Cary is slightly warmer and darker than the comparable Bat. Bat has more detail.
merganser
216 posts
 
Samzx12, I'd have to say the opposite with the Cary pre's being the warmer ones. Out of the BAT line up, the VK 3i is warmer than their other offerings and I agree with Islandear, it mates well with the VK-200. If it matters to you, one word of caution about the SLP2002, the headphone section leaves a lot to be desired.
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samzx12 OP
1,218 posts
 
How does the VK5i compare to the VK3i? Does it have a more neutral presentation?
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 
Yes, the 5i is more neutral. I agree that the BATs will give more detail than the slp2002. If low level detail is a must, then of those you mention, the 5i is a winner. FWIW, I've owned both the 5i and the 2002. IMHO, the 5i is better all around with the 2002 being overly warm and lacking resolution. Others here have call the 2002 "under-rated". YMMV. Cheers,
Spencer
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