BAT Phono Pre Amps
 

Interested in comments from those using BAT phono preamps.

What model are you using? What was the deciding factor in deciding on a particular model? Are you pleased with the performance?

I'm trying to decide how up the line you go before you start paying big dollars for small gains.

Thanks in advance for your comments.

Lurker here. I'm very interested in BAT phono pre's, but haven't heard one. My only comment from afar is that you have to get behind them and, I think, open the case on some models to change the settings. I don't mess with the settings very much to begin with, but the thought of that is not appealing to me.

I read this as well. I think I read about it on the VKP-6 line and am not sure whether this is also the case on the VKP-12 line. I suppose it would only have to be done when you initially installed the phono preamp and then only if you replaced your cartridge. Still, I agree this is not an appealing feature.

I have heard their amps and preamps and was impressed. Probably need a listen to the phone preamp before buying.

I have a VK-P5. it was factory upgraded with the 6 pak plus and has the output stage of the P10. It is very similar to the current VK-P6 SE. Yes, all adustments are on the circuit board and you have to open the case to access them. I run mine at 47k ohms 50 db gain and use a K&K SUT for my OC9 so I don't have to get into it often. I find that it has a more 3D presentation with the SUT. It is a very nice sounding phono stage. I bought mine used. I have NOS Melz 6sn7's for voltage regulation and Phillips 7DJ8's in the input. The output stage is Sovtek 6C45's. It is a very nice sounding phono stage. It is my first separate phono stage so I don't have anything to compare it to bit I a very happy with it. All BAT phono stages have only balanced output and I can attest to the fact that there is a huge difference in the performance using a balanced input on your pre as opposed to an adapter into a single ended input. I have never heard a VK-P12 but it is said they are quite a bit better than the 6. I highly recommend.