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From ARC LS26 to where...

I am wanting to make some changes and of course improvements in the process. I have been using an ARC LS26 for a few years now and am thinking the next logic step in progression is the LS27. But before I do, what direction would you recommend to at least investigate. Connected to the ARC is MC402 amp, Ayre C5xe, Rega RP10/Kleos/linn Linto, Revel Performa F32 all using Cardas IC/speaker cables. I like the level of warmth of the LS26, but I know there is more potential there in the balance of the components.
I hear good things about Modwright, Aesthetix, Cary, please add to the list or share your opinions.
one thing it must have is Unity Gain that can be accessed thru the remote. I have seen some that require changing back and forth on the faceplate only, and I am what is commonly known as ...lazy. 
Just being honest.

128x128theo
theo's avatar
theo OP
2,660 posts
 
Thank you for responding  dodgealum, as mentioned I want to audition the Modwright, but I think in the end I may wind up staying ARC, I know the LS27 is reaching its production run and would be curious to see what the replacement offers. But again the LS27 does offer a step forward and I am also watching for the REF5's here on A'gon.
david12
1,454 posts
 

I always seem to be following dodgealum and agreeing with him. I use an ARC Ref 75 Power amp and was looking for a matching Pre a few months ago, I tried the LS 27 and Ref 3 from Arc and the former was slightly better. Then I tried Modwright and I agree with Dodgealum the LS100 is warmer and the LS36.5 more detailed and neutral.

 I compared the 36.5 with the REF 3 at different dealers over two days, which is about the limit of my aural memory and I thought the 36.5 was better than the REF 3, not night and day different, but better. The Modwright was a good bit cheaper, more compact and better looking too. I heard the two box version of the 36.5 as well and that really was good, but I could'nt run to the cost.

 I was told by the UK dealer that the one box 36.5 can not be converted to the two box, but someone on the Gon corrected me and said it is possible, so that gives a useful upgrade path too.

theo's avatar
theo OP
2,660 posts
 
Thanks on the Modwright, I do intend to demo the 36.5 and knowing that the power supply can be added influences more investigation.
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