Audio Research is looking to sell the company

I have only had ARC gear since 1979 and I have found it to be highly reliable and servicable. I am not particularly anxious about the company being sold, at least as far as my own current equipment is concerned (VT100mkII/LS16). I had an SP5 and a D52B from 1979 until 1999 that never gave me any problems. In fact when I decided to purchase new equipment I was surprised they were still in business. Even if the company tanked completely the equipment can be serviced and repaired through anyone of a number of sources. There seems to be strong opinions about this company, but I have found the designs to be robust and the sonic quality exceptional particularly when the equipment is placed on the performance/value curve. If they go under at least the camp that complains about all the frequent upgrades will be silenced.

Have anyone try SP-16 yet? Is this a good time to buy from ARC? Kevyo, thanks for telling us that ARC is looking for some buyers. I like to held my upgrade for a few months.

Jeff

From Italy; I agree with Jeff wu, SP 16 (and Ref. 1) aren't ARC quality products; here in Italy a lot of people sell their Ref 1 for LS 25. But there were no problems in future, because a lot of good technicians can repair and upgrade ARC; the problem is that we'll forget a good Ref 3!

This is old news (as in years old).

I would not worry about them being sold.
Bill Johnson is simply ready to retire, and at around 75 years old, who can blame him...

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Not a big deal. They'll be around for awhile.