2. amps-preamps
  3. 1301434967

ARC SP-8 to SP-17?

The appearance of a couple of SP-17s (and at least one LS-17) for sale over the past month made me day-dream a bit (until I get my taxes paid, this is probably all that I can do for now!). I'm using an SP-8 pre amp, re-tubed and re-capped by ARC in 2009, driving an ARC 150.2. What I wonder is whether swapping the older pre amp for the newer one would be a real improvement, or a very minor improvement, or a lateral. While the obvious test would be to try it, that isn't easy to arrange. The route which seems to be a more likely improvement would be to go for an LS17 plus something like a PH5 phono stage, but that is quite a bit more costly. Any thoughts from you ARC users out there?
palewin

Showing 2 responses by bifwynne

bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
Agree with Lostbears. I used to own the SP-17 and switched it out for the Ref3. As I'm sure you know, the SP-17 is not an LS-17, but minus the phono stage. They are different units. ARC refers to the LS-17 as a "Baby Ref 3." If you go the LS-17 route, you may want to try to swing the few extra bucks it will cost to get into a used PH-7 Phono Pre. The PH-7 is much improved over the PH-5. I also own the PH-7 and love it!

Not to mess with your head too much, but it may be worth a call to ARC to speak with Calvin. He's a real nice guy and may be able to advise you how to get the most bang for your buck. For example, your 150.2 amp is a Class T SS amp that ARC discontinued in 2006. Cal may suggest (??) that part of your upgrade include changing out the amp and going a little cheaper on the pre. Just a suggestion. Good luck.
bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
Palewin, I can't argue with Jafox. His memory and experience with the SP-8 goes back further than my experience with ARC. Probably showing my age here, but I used to own a Crown IC 150 Pre and DC 300 amp in my first rig - back in the early 70s when Crown was the state of the art in direct coupled SS.

However, based on my readings, I recall that the SP-11 was considered to be a classic in its time. Can't vouch for it, but check out the reviews on the web. You might be able to get a used SP-11 for a good price and have it checked out by ARC. FWIW, I see that a broken SP-11 just sold for $890. Heck, if it cost $500 to fix -- what a bargain.

As I said, I used to own the SP-17. Also owned the SP-16. I really liked them both. Can't say the units played in 3D because I didn't use my 3D movie glasses when I listened to my rig, but maybe Jafox is right -- just wear 3D glasses next time you listen to your rig. Haha

Jokes aside, and no disrespect intended to Jafox, I would still call Calvin at ARC. I have worked with him and Leonard before him. They are straight shooters and won't steer you wrong, IMHO.
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