2. amps-preamps
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Audio Research LS 26 vs REF 3 preamps

I am thinking about purchasing one of these preamps but I don't know if the extra money for the REF3 is worth it? Is the LS 26 85 percent of what the REF 3 is? Any input would be helpful in my decision. I have never seen a discussion about the LS 26 on audiogon. Thanks all
tlg
philefreak
423 posts
 
I just purchased a LS 26. I auditioned a Ref 3 and a LS 17. I thought the LS 26 was the sweet spot in the line. To me, it's 95% of the Ref. 3 and the LS 17 was about 85% of the LS 26. Very nice preamp indeed. Totally changed my system. Amps that I thought were not very good, suddenly became very nice! There's just something to a great tube active linestage.
tlg OP
69 posts
 
Hi, what kind of amp and speakers are you using with the ls 26 ??? thanks for the input.
philefreak
423 posts
 
In the amps listed, one of them (which I'll not tell)was the one I was thinking wasn't one of my better amps.
1.Channel Islands D200 Monos
2.Custom KT 88 tube amp running in Single ended Ultralinear
3.Halcro MC 20
4.H2O mono signature

Since installing the LS 26 all amps sound as if they are a completely different amps. Speakers are Audio Physic Scorpios. Source is a Cary 306 SACD. It's a very good synergy. I've had a lot of audio gear and the ARC LS 26 (along with VH Audio cables) have impressed me the most of anything audio in a long time!
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