Jeff Rowland Corus versus Audio Research Ref 6

Al,
Thanks for the response. I don't have any subs, so that won't be an issue.

Cerrot & ebm,
My system consists of all Rowland components: 625 S2 amp, Corus preamp, and Aeris DAC. I'm just curious about trying a different preamp.

Guido,

What is the PSU's list price?

Almost five years later I answer my own question. I finally decided to try the Ref. 6 in my system. This isn't a knock on the Ref 6, but once again reminds me that synergy/compatibility is more important than individual components. In the context of my system, the Ref. 6 replacing the JR Corus preamp sounds thin, bright, closed-in, 2D, and unnatural. Despite the volume control having 105 steps, I can only get the volume to 28 before it sounds unnaturally loud. This suggests an impedance and/or gain issue and not necessarily a reflection of the quality of the Ref. 6.

Syntax,
When we post stuff that doesn’t add to the conversation, what are we posting for? Based on actually listening and directly comparing current JR components to current components from other manufacturers in my system I completely disagree with your statement. Everyone has an opinion and I’ll leave it at that.

Guido,
As always it's good hearing from you and I hope all is well.

I still haven’t tried the PSU. I’ve heard mixed views about it and there are many different ways to upgrade my system for $8K. I can’t justify spending money without hearing it first.

jond,

Thanks. I'm just sharing my experience and my comments are not meant to be an indictment against the Ref. 6 or an endorsement of the Corus. My experience reminds me that I can't just take what some say are great sounding components and combine them to form a great sounding system. Synergy is really an important "component" of building a great system.

Syntax,
I should have added that I'm convinced that my Rowland components don't get 100% out of my speakers. The Rowland my get 90% out of my speakers, but the next 5-10% is too cost prohibited for me. So, I recognize there's another level, but boy does it cost!

keithr, 
DartZeel and several others come at significantly higher cost than I'm willing to spend. Especially without hearing them in my system.