Balance Audio Technology VK-D5SE

The VK-D5 is a fully balanced design in both the digital and analog domains. The digital section features four Burr-Brown PCM-1704 DACs arrayed in a true differential configuration. The output from each DAC is delivered to a unique current-to-voltage converter that achieves outstanding performance by using the highest quality Vishay bulk foil resistors in a differential passive Flying I-V circuit. The resulting signal is then amplified by a massive high-current vacuum-tube balanced output stage. This innovative approach culminates in a new standard for CD performance and a new balance of power in digital design

VK-D5SE Upgrade

The primary goal for the VK-D5SE upgrade is to allow the use of the new BAT 6H30 SuperTube.

The 6H30 has achieved tremendous popularity since its introduction in the VK-50SE line stage preamplifier. This stimulated requests for making it available in other BAT products as well. The VK-D5 CD player is a natural platform for this modification.

Due to its unique set of characteristics, the 6H30 can not be used as a direct replacement for the more standard 6922 tube. In order to incorporate it in the product, several aspects of the circuit design had to change.

The most immediate modifications involve upgrades to the power supply section. In addition to much higher filament current, the 6H30 also benefits from increased stage bias current. This increase in power consumption requires a special larger toroidal power transformer - the same one as used in the VK-50SE preamplifier.

Another significant modification involves the introduction of the SIX-PAK™ output capacitor modules. These modules triple the value of the paper-in-oil signal capacitors while still maintaining their unique sonic characteristics.

With this modification the enhanced signal drive that the new tubes provide can be used quite effectively to deliver signal to low impedance inputs via long interconnect cables if necessary.

The modification results in a noticeable enhancement to the unit's sound. The VK-D5SE user will enjoy a more open, transparent sound with improved dynamics and bass drive. For everyone who has heard the stellar performance of the VK-50SE, the VK-D5SE offers a similar step-up in performance.