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REF 3 In My System?

I was just offered a great opportunity on an ARC Ref 3. I had an LS-26 at one point and loved it and always wondered what the Ref 3 was all about. This is a great chance to scratch that itch. I'm wondering, from an impedance matching perspective, how it might work in my system. The ARCDB lists the specs for the Ref 3 as having an input impedance of 120K Bal/300K SE (I would be using SE inputs) and the output impedance as 600ohms Bal/300ohms SE (I would be using balanced outs). My amp is the Modwright KWA150, my CD player an Esoteric X-03se and my phonostage the Herron VTPH-2. I don't have the stats on the Modwright handy but the Herron has an output impedance of 500ohms. Not sure how Ref 3 would be "viewed" by my other components. Can anyone offer advice? Anyone use the Ref 3 in concert with the Modwright or Herron products?

I've got to move pretty quickly.....
dodgealum
itsalldark
182 posts
 
I had a LS26 and then purchased a REF3. It is everything you have read and more!
elberoth2's avatar
elberoth2
1,223 posts
 
You should be fine. Ref 3 has a very high input impedance, meaning it is an easy load for your Herron.
mcdaddy
12 posts
 
I also had a Ref 3 and a LS-26 in my system. I had the Ref 3 first and downsized to the 26 for fianancial reasons. The difference was night and day as the Ref 3 was so much better sounding in every way.
lak's avatar
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lak
4,529 posts
 
I own a Reference 3 and like it. I agree, I believe it would work well with your described system.
cmalak
681 posts
 
I also owned the LS-26 and upgraded after a year to the Ref 3. It is definitely a sonic upgrade and if you have a good deal on it, then I would also "scratch" that itch. The Herron should easily drive the Ref 3. Just call Dan and find out what the input impedance is for the KWA-150 amp. As long as it is above 30Kohms, you should be fine. I would also ask Dan if he has had feedback from customers who had matched the Ref 3 to the KWA-150. Finally, I am assuming you cannot actually audition the Ref 3 in your system, but maybe one option is to see if you have any Agoners in your area or someone in your local audio society who might be willing to let you auditon their Ref 3 in your system. Just a thought.
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