Audio Research vs YBA

CJ Premier 16LS MKII or Premier 14. if you want a warmer sound

Well, if your sound is "harsh" with that system these are the reasons;

1a. You have some unnecessary power "enhancement" device between the amplifier and the wall outlet.

1b. Room Acoustics, including to big a room for the speaker amplifier combo...ie amplifier clipping.

3. The Wadia is too bright for your tastes.

4. Weird Speaker cables like MIT or Transparent or a bizarre basement creation.

5. Something is broken

6. You never liked your speakers in the first place

*wildcard reason* you listen to harsh forward recordings and expect different results from your system.

The last thing you want to do is mess up a perfectly good system with an AR or a CJ preamp. Properly working YBA gear is the least of your problems I assure you.

I've always considered YBA preamps to be a little harsh and forward in the treble for my taste. I've heard that preamp against a Levinson no. 38 on Eggleston Works speakers and the Levinson was much more pleasant to listen to. We mainly listened to 40s & 50s jazz and big band and the horns were completely smoothed out on the Levinson over the YBA. Both the ARC LS25 or LS16 will tame the treble and create a more pleasant listening experience in my opinion.

Best wishes,
Friz