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Can somebody explain me the simultaneous Class A ratings for two preamplifiers from Balanced Audio Technology, REX ($20,000) and VK-3iX ($2995) in Oct 2008 issue?

As has often been explained in the magazine, each class in "Recommended Components" covers quite a wide range of performance. So while we feel that all Class A products will be better than all Class B products within the same category, there will still be some Class A products that perform very better than others. This is why we request readers to read the full reviews where such differences are explained, not just the summaries in "Recommended Components."

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...in Oct 2007, I raised this issue that Robert Deutsch reviewed the Standard Version of VK-3iX but John Atkinson measured the Special Edition version. VK-3iX cannot be converted into VK-3iX SE just by changing the tubes. They are two different preamplifiers.

I will certainly look into this matter.

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Nobody from Stereophile ever replied to that post when it was and is a serious discrepancy in their review methodology.

My apologies for not responding to your email at that time. Please understand that I receive many more emails than I have time to respond to individually.

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I demand a rational response from the editor!

People who _demand_ answers from me tend to go to the end of the line, I am afraid.

John Atkinson
Editor, Stereophile

The recommended component issues are the most waited for in my home. Of all the things the magazine does well, tey do this the very best. What is amazing is that a $3k item can perform without shame in the realm of $20K gear.