| Model: | VK5i |
| Category: | Preamplifier (Tube) |
| Suggested Retail Price: | $4000 $4500 w/remote |
| Description: | Tubed linestage pre-amp |
| Manufacturer URL: | Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) |
|
Review by mikem on April 17, 1999 at 20:35:20 IP Address: 209.186.238.137 |
Add Your Review for the VK5i |
The BAT VK5i was the most "magical" component I have added to my system.
It created dimension, black space and imaging I never had before. The unit uses 10 tubes. 8 sovtek 6922 and 2 5881 tubes. The pre-amp is very well designed and simple to use. The unit is quite heavy at 40 lbs and the remote is a very solid impressive hunk of billet aluminum. Both have a very high build quality. The unit has only balanced inputs and outputs and you must purchase optional adapters for single ended use. The controls and solid and simple to operate. Everything has a high quality feel to it and it sounds wonderful. It is not a tubey sound.. very transparent but it does add the fine attributes I mentioned above.
The VK5i has been replaced with a new model. I have seen some on the net for about $3K or less. A great buy IMHO.
| Product Weakness: | Haven't found any yet! |
| Product Strengths: | build quality, soundstage, depth, air, black space, simple to use. |
| Associated Equipment for this Review: | |
| Amplifier: | Llano 200-S |
| Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): | VK5i |
| Sources (CDP/Turntable): | CAL MSB Link DAC |
| Speakers: | VSR VR-4's |
| Cables/Interconnects: | taralabs RSC reference gen |
| Music Used (Genre/Selections): | All kinds |
| Room Size (LxWxH): | 20 x 20 x 10 |
| Time Period/Length of Audition: | 8 months |
| Type of Audition/Review: | Product Owner |
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