Tube Preamp Reviews

Description: Tubed line-stage preamplifier. Tube complement: 8 BAT 6H30 Reflector SuperTubes. Inputs: 5 balanced on XLRs. Outputs: 2 balanced on XLRs (pin 2 hot). Tape output: 1 on XLRs. Maximum voltage gain: 17dB. Volume-control resolution: 0.5dB steps, 140 steps total. Frequency range: 2Hz-300kHz. Minimum input impedance, each phase: 100k ohms. Output impedance: 200 ohms. Minimum power-amplifier input impedance (with optional Six-Pak): 3k ohms. Noise: -110dB unweighted. Distortion: 0.005% at 2V RMS output. Crosstalk: -95dB at 10kHz. Maximum output: 50V RMS. Absolute polarity: switchable.
Dimensions: 19" W by 5.75" H by 15.5" D. Weight: 38 lbs.
Serial number of unit reviewed: 050800038.
Price: $7000 (1999); no longer available (2004), replaced by VK-51SE. VK-R3 remote control adds $500. Upgrade from standard VK-50: $2500. Approximate number of dealers: 55. Warranty: 5 years (1 year on tubes).
Manufacturer: Balanced Audio Technology, 800 First State Blvd., Wilmington, DE 19804. Tel: (802) 255-4228, (302) 999-8855. Fax: (302) 999-8818. Web: www.balanced.com.