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

@samzx12 

You are welcome 

You are correct to question the statement about the REF 6 outshining the REF 75SE.  This is 100% incorrect.  The REF 75SE is a world class amp and will always be a world class amp, regardless of what preamp you are using.

@moto_man I’m not unhappy with my setup to answer your question.  I was just asking or wondering if the Ref75SE is enough to satisfy the Sabrina.  The consensus seems to think YES :)  

You bring up a great point about room treatment and I've tried to address a few. Bass traps were a fantastic addition but they were cheapies however did a good job.  The other treatments are panels i can move in and out because I do not have a dedicated room unfortunately.  Thank you for pointing this out as you are 100% correct.  

turn off the 
AI and enjoy your lovely system!!!! The enemy of GOOD ENUFF is BETTA!

Sam-

I have a Ref150SE. Loved it with my Harbeth 30.2s  I no longer need it having moved to a 2a3 Whammerdyne Amp for my Puré Audio Project Trio 15s which replaced the 30.2s.  If you want a Ref150SE, let me know and I will relist it on Audiogon.

Just a comment about the difference in sonic quality between the Pass X amps and the Audio Research. I ran a Pass X350 with my Sonus Faber Amati... and while the Amati have a little different character than the Wilson... taking that out of the equation (I am very familiar with Wilson speakers)... the Audio Research sounds nothing like the Pass. While the Pass has fast concussive bass and sounds very solid state... the Audio Research has nuanced natural bass as well as a more natural and musical midrange. When I brought an ARC home I intended to switch back and forth. There was no switching. One minute in, I knew no comparisons would be required, and no solid-state amps would be finding their way back into my system. I appreciate a presentation sounds like the real thing.