Audio Research Ref 6 SE

I just remember that from the REF 5 to REF 5SE, to me, it wasn't enough of a sonic improvement to "justify" me purchasing the REF 5SE from the REF 5.  

However, there was enough of an improvement (just enough) for me to justify going from a REF 3 (with new tubes) to a REF 5SE.  I've heard the REF 3 (with new tubes), and REF 5 and REF 5SE and a REF 6 all in the same system at the same time.  That was fun.

I ended up purchasing a REF 5SE first, with the theory that I was going to sell my REF 3 to help purchase the REF 5SE.  Well, my Friendly neighborhood Audio Research Dealer (Optimal Enchantment) let me hear a REF 6 at the same time.  So, I sold my REF 3, traded in the REF 5SE (and received 75% of MSR for it) and all that went towards the REF 6.

I've just never heard a REF 6SE yet.  Don't know if it is "that much" better than a REF 6 for me to come out of pocket for $3000 for the upgrade to a REF 6SE.  I'm pretty darn happy with my REF 6, so time will tell.  It would be great to "borrow" a REF 6SE and do an A/B listening comparison with the REF 6.

Also, just to be clear, Audio Research absolutely did not use "inferior" parts in previous Reference series products.  They used the best their Engineers came up with at that time.

enjoy

Purchase the upgrade or not, that is totally up to you.  I don't see a problem here.  Other than Audio Research or dealers should let potential customers know in advance that new products or upgrades are coming, or that the product you are considering purchasing is going to be discontinued.

Do auto manufacturers do this?  It is pretty much standard now that new year autos will be slightly different than the previous year autos.  Companies that sit on their laurels and don't improve go out-of-business.

Yes, with the new ownership, Audio Research is more dollar focused than customer focused.  

However, as long as you are happy with your equipment, where is the problem?  If you are more concerned with resale value, then you probably aren't into this for sound quality anyway.

As long as a signal goes through a wire or electrical equipment, there will be distortion and change.  It will never sound perfectly "real".   therefore, improvements to parts, equipment or engineering absolutely better happen to get closer to "real".

$3,000 for the upgrade from REF 6 to REF 6SE.  I would love to hear them side by side in the same system.  

Cars change almost every year.  speakers almost as often.  Cables, definitely.  I think Audio Research does this approximately every five years or so.

They are most certainly not the only one.

Take a step back, take a breath. relax.  it will be okay.  You won't have any problem selling your REF 6 for a good price.  

enjoy