Audio Research and Wilson Sabrina


Would like some feedback please on who uses Audio Research amps for Sabrina's.  Currently I'm using a REF75SE with a REF6 preamp. ChatGPT says the REF75SE is a recommended amp but can be limited due to peak power demands. I love the amp but wondering what experiences any of you may have? A REF150SE or GS150 i know are the next steps up the ARC ladder. And no I can't afford a REF160 unfortunately 😔  Mainly listen at 80-85 dB in a 16x16 room with vaulted ceilings. 

samzx12

Why would you buy another amp from the same manufacturer dude? Get some other amp and have something different. Variety is the spice of life.

 

In case you haven’t heard Wilson and ARC are a fantastic match.  I've had many amps and ARC is my favorite.  

Unfortunately, I cannot offer much...  I run Wilson W/P 8 with two McIntosh MC275 tube amps in mono mode.  So 150 tube watts on paper (180 tube watts tested).  Sensitivity on the W/P 8 is 91 db at 4 ohm.  My brother runs a Music Reference RM9 100+ watts stereo tube amp with his Wilson Sophia II, sensitivity is 89 db at 4 ohm.   We are both very satisfied with the power and loudness.  Overall sound is wonderful.  I also have vaulted ceilings and a huge 18’x25’x19’ room.  His room is large, but, low ceilings - 9 feet.  Normally, I would say you are OK, but, I say borderline because the Sabrina is 87db sensitivity at 4 ohm.  If the REF75SE is a conservative 75 watt, ie. tests out at 90 watts or so, you should be ok.  One thing I can say, I believe it will sound great, since we both love tubes with Wilsons.  You should definitely try it before deciding.  Try the Sabrinas closer than normal to the front wall to get a little more bass, ie. try 2 feet or a little less from the back of the speaker to the front wall. 

Be sure to try the various output taps. The 75se is a very sweet amplifier imo and experience - I’ve heard it at length in a variety of systems.. including a couple of week loan while my Ayre was being upgraded. I have a REF80S but not running Wilson. Best to you in music :-)

jim