There is a huge difference between the Ref 1 & Ref 2. Much more airy with a HUGE soundstage, greater dynamics, etc. It also seems to be much more quiet of an amp. It does have a bit of the ARC signature (everything has some sort of signature sound), but paired with a nice complimentary cable like the Transparent Ref XL, Nordost SPM, or the Purist Audio (have not personally heard but am told they are great,)it sounds incredible. Definitely upgrade to the Ref 2, it is arguably the best preamp on the market today. The other thing to ask is what amp are you running it with?
