2. amps-preamps
  3. 1064637155

ARC LS-2 vs LS-22R

I am considering upgrading from the ARC LS-2 to the Arc LS-22. (I like the ARC preamps, as they seem to be built to a very high standard. I have never had a problem with any of my ARC equipment).

My local dealer has a used LS-22R, but before I tear apart my system, and demo it to hear what it sounds like, I would like to know what any current and/or past users of the LS-2 and/or LS-22 think about the comparision between the two.

I like the sound that I get from a tube preamp, so I plan on sticking with that. I like the LS-2 a lot, but I would not mind upgrading it a bit, and I would like the convenience of a remote. (Plus the ability of someday upgrading to run balanced inputs. I currently only use the balanced out to my Levinson No. 23 amp, which, by the way, I have no desire to replace).

My question is: Is the sound really any better, or am I really just upgrading to get the remote, (and the future used of the balanced inputs). I have heard that the LS-22 has a more "tubey" sound. Is this right or do they really just sound the same.

Thanks for your input!

Current system includes:

Levinson No. 23 amp
Revel Studio Speakers
ARC PH-3 Phono Preamp
Basis 1400 TT, w/RB 300 arm & Koetsu Black cartridge
Sony 9000ES DVD/SACD/CD player
MIT 770 CVT biwire speaker wire
Various interconnects, including: Straight wire Serenade, MIT 330, Kimber Hero
kurt_tank

Showing 1 response by bigkidz

bigkidz
1,784 posts
 
I am going to say something here that will piss off some people but IMHO and I think it was also stated in the Stereophile review if I am correct, the LS-22 is a bright sounding preamp. People in the industry who know ARC will tell you that the LS-22 was the worst preamp that ARC designed. The review mentions somethig about the sound being bright or something like that but they were a little nicer than I am here.

Save your mondy and buy somethig else.

Happy Listening.
More to discover