Icorem ... I can't offer comments about how the Ref 5 SE will compare to the other models you mention in your OP. But I do own the ARC Ref 5 SE. I already shared my personal reactions in a parallel thread you started.
If you can arrange a no-buy commitment, it's worth your time to take a listen to the Ref 5 SE. At the very least, it will give you a sense of how the Ref 5 SE stacks up against your current MBL pre.
Check the Audionet MAX amp's input impedance as I advised you in the parallel thread you started on the same subject. The Ref 5 SE is not happy if the amp's input impedance drops below 20K ohms.
That said, although I have no personal experience with the Audionet brand, I surmise that there may very well be a natural synergy between the Audionet pre you have in mind and your Audionet MAX amp.
Bottom line: Try the Ref 5 SE. You might like it.
Cheers,
BIF
If you can arrange a no-buy commitment, it's worth your time to take a listen to the Ref 5 SE. At the very least, it will give you a sense of how the Ref 5 SE stacks up against your current MBL pre.
Check the Audionet MAX amp's input impedance as I advised you in the parallel thread you started on the same subject. The Ref 5 SE is not happy if the amp's input impedance drops below 20K ohms.
That said, although I have no personal experience with the Audionet brand, I surmise that there may very well be a natural synergy between the Audionet pre you have in mind and your Audionet MAX amp.
Bottom line: Try the Ref 5 SE. You might like it.
Cheers,
BIF