BAT unveils VK80i high-end tube stereo amp for audiophiles

Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) has announced an all-tube integrated amplifier, the VK80i. The new model boasts technologies first introduced by the brand’s flagship REX series, and features a triode-balanced architecture, fuse-less protection and automatic-bias circuits. Distribution is via Karma-AV.

Power output is rated at 55 watts per channel. The VK80i uses the triode 6C33C-B tube, arranged in a fully balanced topology, for the high-current performance required to drive even difficult low-impedance speaker loads.

The manufacturer says that the elimination of internal channel and tube fuses ‘means that the VK80i’s performance is not compromised by the ‘sound’ or the quality of the fuse that is normally placed in the signal path of an amplifier channel. In the rare event of an output tube becoming over-stressed, normal operation is restored by turning the VK80i off and on again.’

With Intelligent auto-bias operation, there’s no need to set and readjust the bias of the output tubes. An intelligent automatic bias design intuitively adjusts for changing line voltage and aging tubes, with each output tube having its own dedicated bias circuit.

Signal inputs include one XLR, and three RCA phonos. Power Consumption is said to be 400W when idle, and 800W on full power.

Available in black or silver, the VK80i will sell for £9,995 when it’s released in September.