The LS22 is a better sounding Preamp. It has PRAT. The problem with the LS22 is that the stock tubes suck. If you buy it you will at least have to replace the first 4 positions, all eight if you run balanced. This can be an expensive proposition. The best sounding tubes that I have heard used are the Amprex 7308's the best cheap tubes are the Slyvania 7308's about 15 bucks a pop. I think Upscale Audio likes the 6H23 for this pre. If You did not have a Preamp I would say get the LS22. Since you have the LS2B try rolling some different tubes and see what you think. It will be a lot cheaper.
ARC LS-2 vs LS-22R
I am considering upgrading from the ARC LS-2 to the Arc LS-22. (I like the ARC preamps, as they seem to be built to a very high standard. I have never had a problem with any of my ARC equipment).
My local dealer has a used LS-22R, but before I tear apart my system, and demo it to hear what it sounds like, I would like to know what any current and/or past users of the LS-2 and/or LS-22 think about the comparision between the two.
I like the sound that I get from a tube preamp, so I plan on sticking with that. I like the LS-2 a lot, but I would not mind upgrading it a bit, and I would like the convenience of a remote. (Plus the ability of someday upgrading to run balanced inputs. I currently only use the balanced out to my Levinson No. 23 amp, which, by the way, I have no desire to replace).
My question is: Is the sound really any better, or am I really just upgrading to get the remote, (and the future used of the balanced inputs). I have heard that the LS-22 has a more "tubey" sound. Is this right or do they really just sound the same.
Thanks for your input!
Current system includes:
Levinson No. 23 amp
Revel Studio Speakers
ARC PH-3 Phono Preamp
Basis 1400 TT, w/RB 300 arm & Koetsu Black cartridge
Sony 9000ES DVD/SACD/CD player
MIT 770 CVT biwire speaker wire
Various interconnects, including: Straight wire Serenade, MIT 330, Kimber Hero
My local dealer has a used LS-22R, but before I tear apart my system, and demo it to hear what it sounds like, I would like to know what any current and/or past users of the LS-2 and/or LS-22 think about the comparision between the two.
I like the sound that I get from a tube preamp, so I plan on sticking with that. I like the LS-2 a lot, but I would not mind upgrading it a bit, and I would like the convenience of a remote. (Plus the ability of someday upgrading to run balanced inputs. I currently only use the balanced out to my Levinson No. 23 amp, which, by the way, I have no desire to replace).
My question is: Is the sound really any better, or am I really just upgrading to get the remote, (and the future used of the balanced inputs). I have heard that the LS-22 has a more "tubey" sound. Is this right or do they really just sound the same.
Thanks for your input!
Current system includes:
Levinson No. 23 amp
Revel Studio Speakers
ARC PH-3 Phono Preamp
Basis 1400 TT, w/RB 300 arm & Koetsu Black cartridge
Sony 9000ES DVD/SACD/CD player
MIT 770 CVT biwire speaker wire
Various interconnects, including: Straight wire Serenade, MIT 330, Kimber Hero