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Should I consider the newer Audio Research pre & power amps, when I play records not CD's

I worked in and owned upper end audio stores back in the 1970's. (McIntosh B&O Magnepan, etc) I have been pretty much out of audio for the past 30 years. In my old age, I want to play the records I have saved (many MFSL & Japanese virgin vinyl) I kept my B&O linear 4002 W/mmc20CL cart. and it still works and I have newer B&W 804 speakers. I am going to get a new table of better quality. I have always wanted an Audio Research tube amp and Preamp. I am considering the LS 26 or LS17SE Preamp and older D90/115 or newer VS 115 or the Ref 75SE. I am in my 60's and my hearing is not as good as it was, plus I am lost with all the digital technology. (just started using a smart phone) I just wanted to get opinions spending $4000 on older ARC or bite the bullet and spend in the $7000 up. Is it worth spending the money for the new equipment when I am only playing records. 
128x128juke4u
rshak
416 posts
 
I second the suggestion that you consider PrimaLuna.  I've owned a DiaLogue Premium Integrated for three years and have been very happy with it.  I also listen to a lot of LPs and have a separate phono stage (Eastern Electric tube model) hooked up to the amp.

I bought the amp from Upscale Audio (Kevin Deal) - very knowledgeable 
and helpful. The money you save with a PrimaLuna could be applied towards a higher end TT/cartridge.  In my case I have a Rega P9 with RB1000 mated to a wonderful Ortofon Jubilee cart. Very happy with the performance.



dweller's avatar
dweller
3,737 posts
 
The Audio Research SP-20 preamp includes a phono stage (and DAC, I believe).
I'd also look at a McIntosh C22 tube preamp w/phono.
Welcome back! 
mb1audio02
188 posts
 
" I am considering the LS 26 or LS17SE Preamp and older D90/115 or newer VS 115 or the Ref 75SE."

If you must have ARC tube amp and preamp, Find a good used VT-100 (Mk 1, 2 or 3 are all OK.), and take the rest of the money and buy the best preamp you can afford.
juke4u's avatar
juke4u OP
50 posts
 
I appreciate the help very much. I never realized I was so far out of date. I listened to ARC years ago but could not afford it. I am not dead set on ARC and am now realizing there are great companies out there, producing a high quality products. Why do you need DACs and what are some good phono preamps?
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