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Used Audio Research Preamp Options

Before I pose my question, I do admit that I expect mixed responses since the question is somewhat subjective. That been said, I think I have pushed myself into an obsession to own an Audio Research preamp. I know there are better preamps out there for the money and I might ultimately overcome this obsession but I'd like to hear from folks who have owned different ARC preamp's over the years about their personal experiences. So here is my question: if you had $2500 to spend, which used ARC preamp would you buy? A line stage component would be fine, tube or SS. I'm also making an assumption which may not be completely valid and that is any of these preamps will be an upgrade from my NAD C165BEE. Any comments will be appreciated here too. My other components are McIntosh MC2200 (100K impedance) and a Vincent SP-331 ( 47K impedance,150w in 8 ohm/300w 4 ohm) amplifiers. Not sure if speakers matter- ML Aerius, Def. Tech. BP20 since I'm also looking for an upgrade route there too. Thanks.

128x128kalali
minorl
1,014 posts
 
SP11 or SP14
you can't go wrong. They are not balanced out, but there are Jensen devices for that if you need it. They sound excellent but are not remote controlled. Audio Research repairs and maintains all of their older units.

enjoy
statman's avatar
statman
285 posts
 
I have owned in the past an Audio Research  SP7, SP9, then an SP14, LS25 MKII, and finally a Ref 5SE. I really enjoyed the SP14, and then later the LS25 MKII. I would say either of those would keep you happy for awhile. Although they are designated tube preamps there is only one tube to deal with when time to replace it. If it were me and choosing between the LS25 MKII and the SP14, I would pick the LS25 MKII. That may be over your budget but it does sound better.
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
537 posts
 

 I have to agree with statman. I have also owned a lot of Audio Research preamps over the last 25 years or so. If I only had $2500 to spend on a preamp, it would be an LS25 mk2. I owned one for years until I bought my Ref 5se. It is a killer preamp for the money. The mk2 version uses the 6h30 tube instead of the earlier 6922 tube.

 
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