Balanced Audio Technology BAT VK-D5SE CD player with tubes





This is one of the best CD players ever made. Well built, all design is optimized for perfect analog-like sound.
Digital output to rival the best transports. Balanced XLR and RCA outputs.
True balanced topology from one of the best designers in the industry. Four Burr-Brown PCM63-K DAC chips and tubed output stage.

Upgrading the BATVK5 SE ? How is it possible ?


The tubes have been upgraded from 6N30P to much better in my opinion 6N6P - more liquid, more smooth, natural, analog, true. A big difference confirmed by tens of users.
Tubes are 6 mo old, matched and tested. By comparison so called "super-tube" 6N30P sounds a little  harsh, flat and glassy.
The player was mint, bought in Germany, The sound has awesome authority, reality, 3-dimensional soundstage and thrilling "they are here" illusion.

PMD-100 digital filter with optional upgrade to much better after-market chip - Burr-Brown DF1704DE which can be added for 80 USD from ASD-Audiotuning company from Germany.
It has more liquid, natural and bass-powerfull sound. It is a plug-in replacement - easy to do-  in the dill socket.

Is BAT VK5D-SE the best player there is ?

Well, not really. It's sound does not beat the lampized players costing 10 times less. It is OK but there is something holding it back. I guess it must be the I/U conversion not optimized. and I think that 6N2P would be a MUCH better suited tube.  The product is in it's own way OVERENGINEERED.

The weak point is the Philips transport - it is very good sounding and reliable, but feels flimsy especially when the drawer opens - it is not soft and not smooth,
feels like a cheap drawer. You must accept it as part of the total package.  Original superb remote is fantastic. (original price 500 USD).
Total original price was 7500 USD plus USA to EU customs and shipping. My unit manufactured in y. 2000. Made In USA.