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ARC Reference 2 MkII Preamp white noise levels

Hi,
Just acquired a Ref2 MII preamp. The level of white noise is much higher than my BAT VK-50SE. It does not change with volume setting and is definitely not the amp noise. By muting and unmuting the preamp, you can discern the difference. The noise is quite audible from the listening position 8 feet away. For those who have this preamp, is the noise characteristic? Could it be the tubes? The difference between the BAT and ARC is remarkable. Thanks- William
classicjazz

Showing 2 responses by loonytunz

loonytunz's avatar
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loonytunz
164 posts
 
I doubt gain differences are the problem. While muted, the difference in the two pre's gain capabilities shouldn't matter.

If the noise level isn't at or near zero when the pre is muted, then it sounds like it could be an impedance mismatch...

The tubes would seem pretty unlikely. When they go south, you will definitely know something is wrong.
loonytunz's avatar
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loonytunz
164 posts
 
I'm not too certain about any plug in gadgets to correct the problem. I wouldn't doubt you could Google up some sort of pad to plug in between your pre & amp.

I assume you are using the balanced outputs on the ARC? The specs state that the output impedance halves at the single ended outputs. If you have some adaptors to go SE, it might be worth a try to see if that helps.
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