VK-85 vs REX
The REX's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the VK-85's 96 dB and its thd 0.005% against 0.010%. Both share output impedance (200Ω) and input impedance (100Ω).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The Balanced Audio Technology VK-85 preamplifier, introduced alongside the REX 300 power amplifier, combines the best traits of tube and solid-state sound. It employs BAT's signature high-current Unistage topology with second-generation transformer-coupled outputs and a symmetrical N-channel gain block for superior dynamics and transparency. The SuperPak Quattro power supply, with four levels of filtration and premium silver foil/oil capacitors, significantly reduces the noise floor, enhancing harmonic accuracy, textural beauty, and stereo imaging. The single-gain-stage Unistage design avoids global feedback and multi-stage artifacts, using identical N-channel MOSFETs on both waveform sides for signal symmetry. Available in silver or black, it offers precise 140-step 0.5 dB volume control, phase inversion, and versatile connectivity.
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The REX's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the VK-85's 96 dB and its thd 0.005% against 0.010%. Both share output impedance (200Ω) and input impedance (100Ω).
The Magnetic's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the VK-85's 96 dB, its thd 0.060% against 0.010%, and its output impedance 600Ω against 200Ω. Both share class (A).
The KRC-HR's output voltage is 14.0V RMS against the VK-85's 20.0V RMS and its output impedance 5Ω against 200Ω. Both share signal-to-noise (96 dB) and thd (0.010%).
The Symmetrical's signal-to-noise is 95 dB against the VK-85's 96 dB, its thd 0.030% against 0.010%, its output impedance 70Ω against 200Ω, and its output voltage 1.0V RMS against 20.0V RMS.
Conrad Johnson GAT
Conrad Johnson ART MkII
The specs and the pairings above are open to everyone. Sign up and you get the system builder, the assistant, a compatibility check against the gear you already own, and a watch on this product so a price or pairing change reaches you.
Sign up free