Audio Research Corp Ref 5 SE

Bifwynne - since the power supply and the gain section circuit of the Ref Phono 2 are shared with the Ref 5, and since the SE upgrade to each includes an upgrade to the power supply and addition of Teflon caps, you may get some idea of about the improved sonics of the Ref5SE by parsing through the Valin preview on the Ref Phono 2 SE. Since his comments indicate he had roughly 10 days with the RP2SE, further improvements will come across the several hundreds of hours of break-in needed by a new unit generally and the Teflon caps in particular. The power supply upgrade should yield better low frequency articulation and, typically, Teflon caps will offer more tonal depth. It's likely the Ref5SE (and RP2SE) will sound closer to the Ref40 Anniversary and deliver improved image focus and dimensionality. Just my thoughts as an exercise; I've not heard the SE units, but I'm looking forward to 'em.

>>The only concern I have is how much I will benefit from the upgrade in light of my source gear and amp. Take a look at my system. I'd appreciate any advice offered.<<

On the flip side of Tylercoupe's comment, imo, your system could benefit more with an upgrade from the PH7 to the Ref Phono 2 (SE or original) than from the REF5 to the REF5 SE. Among other things that allows running a fully balanced system and would be a decision independent of amp/speaker synergy. My rig went from the PH7 to the RP2 and I have not looked back. My preference is to evolve my system such that no one component steps well beyond others - but that's just me and not a criticism of the positive 5SE move. Again, different dollars of course.

>>I even asked Calvin if I could keep the old face-plate so my wife wouldn't catch the change. He said nothin' doin'. <<

Chuckle! Maybe you could tape little black square pieces of paper over the metal buttons.

I applaud ARC's business model and their success bears it out.

>>I just got a shunyata anaconda cx for my 5SE.<<

Does this have their new ZiTron technology? Can you comment on effect of the pc? Thanks!