ARC REF 3 vs ML 326s


Need opinions please. My next preamp will be either the ARC Ref 3 or ML 326s. Heres what i need to inform you, I have the B&W Matrix 800s. I mostly listen to classic rock so alot of the cd recordings/sonics are not to good as you may know. And the B&W 800s reveal this. So im thinking of going with a tube preamp such as the ARC Ref 3 will take the edge off ..What are your opinions of this.
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xtattooedtrackman
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I'll take up that challenge, Tattoo. I've cleaned more than half my collection with ultrasonics, about 2500 records. It's the greatest thing since sliced bread - if you play vinyl.
terry9m
I've cleaned more than half my collection with ultrasonics, about 2500 records. It's the greatest thing since sliced bread - if you play vinyl.
Agreed. Even some new, factory-sealed LPs are dusty and benefit from a good ultrasonic cleaning.

discussing record cleaning on a preamp thread ? quite funny.
Even more so when you look at the OP's virtual system and see that he doesn't own a record player.
   
TTM - I would recommend a tube preamp in your chain, but look for one with variable gain. This will allow you to deal with compressed rock music better which is your requirement. ARC no longer offer variable gain.
When I contacted Leonard and Kalvin over the years at ARC - you know when you could get them direct, I asked why not ? Their response to me was.... 

¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Klyne and Atma Sphere are two that offer this feature. For ARC you would need to go back to before remotes were used - if this is a requirement ?  I have heard many preamps in my room including SP8, SP10, and Ref ARC models. I would not give up variable gain. Once one has mastered how to use it with different sources, different recorded music material (all genres), different amps, you can't be without it.

Check out the Belles tube Preamps. You will forget about the brands mentioned above once you have heard a Belles. One thing that is remarkable about Dave Belles tube designs is that they are dead quiet as a tomb. You will hear no hiss sound coming from the tubes which is a problem with many tube preamps. Hand made in New York. Both his solid state and tube designs are known for their very rich, ultra smooth sonic character with killer bass. Off the radar, doesn't advertise, and has been in business for thirty years. Very strong word of mouth reputation. Has a strong cult following in Asia and Great Britain. His VT-01 and LA-01 tube preamps are true statement pieces. Build quality is much better than ARC. The performance level of these units are typical of tube designs in the $10K to $20K price range.