Yes, it was the ref3. It was an upgrade for me because I specifically want more bass drive and the Allnic did the trick. When I had the Boulder amp, ARC ref3 did bass just fine. It did not do bass as well when partnered with vac phi 300.1 or luxman amp.
I have compared the Allnic to a Shindo pre(13k-16K) one. Friend brought it over and I forgot the exact model. Shindo greatest strength is a very transparent lucid midrange. Allnic is more full and sweeter sounding.
ARC has a 6H30 type sound. It is extended with a very open soundstage. A little greyish depending on partnering equipment.
Like I posted, it depends on what amp you will be driving and which way you want to go with the sound.
I have compared the Allnic to a Shindo pre(13k-16K) one. Friend brought it over and I forgot the exact model. Shindo greatest strength is a very transparent lucid midrange. Allnic is more full and sweeter sounding.
ARC has a 6H30 type sound. It is extended with a very open soundstage. A little greyish depending on partnering equipment.
Like I posted, it depends on what amp you will be driving and which way you want to go with the sound.