The audio research arc line- from top to bottom.

Unless you are set on a REF 5, I would investigate the REF 3. It is very good. Also, an SP15 or SP11 with new tubes would make you smile.

enjoy

Another long time Audio Research user and fan here. I always lusted for an SP15 in black but settled on the SP14! Wanted to buy a Ref 2 but settled for a LS25 MKII which was a great unit. If I were buying right now and in your position the Ref 3 is the way to go. The LS26 is still more of a sideways jump rather than forward.It's always made a difference sonically when discussing Audio Research preamps and their power supplies. That's what made the SP15 so sought after. Just my 2 cents!

Not to hijack the thread, but I was a long time ARC user also, but also used other brands. I most recently owned a Ref3/Ref110 combo for a couple of years. I was very surprised when I tried a Shindo Auriges L which, for only $2995, pretty well outclassed my Ref 3. So I would just recommend you seek one of those out before spending much more. I moved up to the Masseto, and well, that is the same price as the Ref 5, so if you are spending that kind of money, you should check it out also.