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Zero Feedback: Atmasphere vs. BAT

Do Atmasphere and BAT have similar sound because they both use low or zero feedback tube designs?

I am considering these amps for my 8 ohm 89db Spendor S8e's.

I am looking for smoothness, Transparency and sound on the warm side. I am leaning toward a BAT VK75, it can be upgraded and it runs AB instead of the hot class A. You can also upgrade to VK 150. From what I can gather the 140 watt MA1 is superior in the area of dynamics, that would be the main reason to go Atmasphere to the best of my knowledge as OTL is super fast and more of a rock out style.

I am looking for used gear that can be supported over the long term by a good company.
128x128scottlanterman
jj2468
280 posts
 
For "smoothness and transparency and warmth" it sounds like you are looking for a Cary, CJ or other el34 based amp; or perhaps a 300b amp.

Atma, IMHO runs pretty neutral. BAT runs very lean - a bit like Audio Research. So, no, BAT and Atma do not sound similar. IMHO, the Atma and Audiokinesis combo will be very, very musical and better many systems costing much more. The big Atma will heat up a room, but with a properly matched speaker, you will be fine with the m30 or m60.
curriemt11
220 posts
 
Well, I can confirm that the combination of the Atma-Sphere S-30 and the Audiokinesis Planetarium Beta is superb. I assume this would extend to the Jazz Modules as well. I live near Houston, which certainly gives New Orleans a serious run for its money with respect to most intolerable summers. The S-30 puts out heat, sure, but is really not a problem. It is as neutral as they come. Look elsewhere if you want warmth, at least the artificial kind.

By the way, guys, the model numbers are "S-30" and "M-60".
sidssp
1,077 posts
 
Scott,

With all due respect, IMHO, you are taking a wrong approach. Speakers are a much more difficult DIY project than building amps. If you are on a budget and are interested in DIY, I would suggest you buy a pair of high efficient speaker used, something with at least 95db+ sensitivity; and build an amp to match it. If soldering isn't your cup of tea, than forget about DIY, save some more money and buy a used amp.

I used to be a DIYer myself may years ago and had built many amps and speakers. Most of the amps turned out great but none of the speakers were good.

Don't build speakers if you want to save money. You will end up spending more.
maril555
619 posts
 
Jj2468,
Your statement about BAT being "very lean" does not support my personal experience with various BAT pieces- BAT VK-75SE,
BAT VK-150SE and BAT REX.
Not at any point of time, paired with different speakers, did any BAT sound anywhere close to being lean.
It sounds full- bodied, very dynamic and textured.
dgarretson
2,588 posts
 
This is true. BAT tube amps have liquidity and suppleness similar to SETs. However, IME their paper-in-oil coupling caps slightly blunt dynamics, bass control, and resolution. With a swap to better coupling caps the BAT amps gain in these areas and in neutrality and perceived extension at frequency extremes-- which is characteristic of Atma-Sphere.
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