Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) VK-50SE Tube Preamplifier XLR in Excellent

The Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) VK-50SE is a landmark tube preamplifier distinguished by its purist, fully-balanced, zero-feedback design. At its core is BAT's proprietary Unistage™ circuit, which uses a single gain stage to preserve signal integrity and deliver a transparent, dynamic sound. The "Special Edition" (SE) is further enhanced by an upgraded "Super-Pak" power supply, increasing energy storage for improved bass and dynamics. Its high-resolution electronic volume control and use of high-quality components like the 6H30 "Reflector SuperTubes" contribute to its reputation for exceptional musicality and a vast, three-dimensional soundstage, making it a favorite among high-end audio enthusiasts.

Listing Product: (1) Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) VK-50SE

Included:  (1) Original Remote, (1) Copy of User Manual, Original Shipping Package.

Functional and Cosmetic Condition:

This VK-50SE is in excellent working and cosmetic condition.

Functionally, the unit is flawless. It produces a clear sound without any unwanted issue, and all XLR inputs, buttons, and the LED display work perfectly. A video demonstration is available to show its functionality in detail.

Demo Video Link: https://youtu.be/Y8s3bU4c5bI

(Remote and the unit function test without sound input source)

Cosmetically, the unit is also in excellent shape. The vacuum tubes, including the 6H30s, appear great condition with no burn marks. Please see the photos for a closer look at its condition.

Demo Video Link: https://youtu.be/NL33z9AAij4

(Single VK-1000 Mono Block Stereo Setup) 

Demo Video Link: https://youtu.be/HexCTti6TqA

(Two VK-1000 Mono Blocks) 

The Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) VK-50SE is a highly regarded tube line-stage preamplifier known for its high-end performance and robust construction. Here are the key specifications and features: 

General Specifications

• Type: Tubed line-stage preamplifier
• Tube Complement: 8 x BAT 6H30 "Reflector SuperTubes"
• Design: Fully balanced, zero-feedback, single-gain stage (Unistage topology)
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 19" x 5.75" x 15.5"
• Weight: 38 lbs

Performance Specifications

• Maximum Voltage Gain: 17 dB
• Frequency Range: 2 Hz to 300 kHz
• Input Impedance (each phase): 100 kΩ
• Output Impedance: 200 Ω
• Noise (unweighted): -110 dB
• Distortion at 2V RMS output: 0.005%
• Crosstalk: -95 dB at 10 kHz
• Maximum Output: 50 V RMS

Features and Design Highlights

• Fully Balanced Topology: The VK-50SE is a true balanced design, with inputs and outputs on XLR connectors. BAT also provided high-quality XLR-to-RCA adapters for connecting single-ended components.
• Unistage™ Circuitry: This proprietary design uses a single gain stage to amplify the signal, minimizing components in the signal path and avoiding the need for global feedback. This purist approach is intended to preserve the integrity of the audio signal, resulting in a more transparent and dynamic sound.
• Super-Pak Power Supply: The "Special Edition" (SE) version of the VK-50 features an upgraded power supply with additional capacitors (called the "Six-Pak") to double the energy storage of the standard model. This provides improved dynamics and bass performance.
• High-Resolution Volume Control: It uses an electronic shunt attenuator with 140 steps of 0.5 dB resolution. Only one Vishay bulk metal-foil resistor per phase remains in the signal path, which is considered a high-quality component choice.
• User-Friendly Interface: The preamp features a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD) and a variety of pushbuttons and a rotary knob for functions like input selection, phase control, and mono/stereo switching. Many settings, including input names and volume levels, are programmable and stored in memory.
• Robust Construction: The chassis is built with a thick base plate and other components designed to control resonance and vibration, which is crucial for sensitive tube circuits.

The BAT VK-50SE was a flagship product at its time, praised for its exceptional transparency, musicality, and ability to deliver a large, three-dimensional soundstage. Its high-current design and low output impedance allow it to drive a wide variety of power amplifiers effectively.

Payments: We prefer PayPal, and it's fee-free. Credit card payments are also accepted without processing charges. Alternatively, you can pay by check or money order (funds must clear before shipment) or via wire transfer. Please request our bank details for wire transfers.

Pick Up or Shipping: We provide professional shipping throughout the continental United States, While local pickup in Northvale, NJ is recommended after testing. Your item will be securely packed with premium wraps, cushioning, and heavy-duty boxes. Our experienced staff can also professionally palletize shipments as needed. For shipping to Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Alaska, and other locations, please request a personalized quote.

International Buyers: International buyers are welcome. Please await a shipping quote. All import duties and fees in your country, as well as any necessary voltage conversion, are the buyer's responsibility.

Have Gear to Sell or Trade?:  If you have the gear to sell, trade, or consign, please send us an email to customerservice@audiobuyers.com or a text message to 1-201-674-7895

with the following information. We will get back to you within 24 hours.
Brand :
Model # :
Condition :
City and State :
Email address and telephone number (if available) :
Pictures (if available) :

AUDIO BUYERS INC

Welcome to Audio Buyers Inc., your Northvale, NJ source for all things audio. We buy, sell, offer trade-ins, and handle consignments of vintage audio gear, including high-end stereo and home theater amplifiers and speakers. Our inventory also features turntables, CD players, DACs, tuners, interconnects, cables, LPs, CDs, and a wide range of other audio essentials.

Please review our feedback and buy with confidence!!
Your satisfaction is our priority. Please let us know if you notice something we can improve.

If you have a question or request, please do not hesitate to send us an email at customerservice@audiobuyers.com or a text message to 1-201-674-7895.

Thank you for your business.

AUDIO BUYERS INC.