2. amps-preamps
  3. 124751-7565

Solid state amp to replace my Audio Research Ref 150 amp

I have owned an Audio Research Ref. 150 for 4 years, but with tube changes and the heat, I'd like to find a solid state amp that would mate well with my Baby Nola speakers, as well as be 100% reliable and have the great sound my AR amp has given me. The AR amp was originally recommended by the Nola designer, Carl Marschiotta. 

My listening tastes primarily range in jazz, classical, roots music, and Americana such as Jason Isbell. I do like to rock the house occasionally, but I greatly value the finesse I get from the AR 150, as well as the solid bass and dimensionally my amp provides in my system.

I don't want to replace my Audio Research preamp and phono preamp, so I am wishing for a solid state power amp that will fulfill my amplifier hopes, work with my other AR pieces an continue to provide me the pleasure my Audio Research amp has given me.

 I would like to pay less than $8k on AudiogoN.

Comments and suggestions are appreciated.

128x128shaq
joeinid's avatar
joeinid
476 posts
 
Hi shaq,

You've received a bunch of "recommendations" so far , any thoughts on what you are planning on doing? I am curious because I have both tubes and solid state. I go back and forth when I get tired of one, I move to the other. It keeps things interesting for me.

Thanks.
glai's avatar
glai
442 posts
 
I have the Ref 250 (not se).  I enjoy them a lot but the heat is too much in the summer.  I tried many SS including Luxman, Pass, Ayre, MBL, Lamm.  The Accuphase A70 is very similar to ARC in terms of tonal balance.  Better bass extension but still not quite the same micro dynamics that tubes have (but close).
shaq's avatar
shaq OP
13 posts
 
I'm also thinking of getting an alternatives,  the Reference 75 SE amplifier from AResearch.

Anyone familiar with how that amp sounds?

joeinid's avatar
joeinid
476 posts
 
I was told that watt for watt, the Ref 75 SE is the best sounding ARC amp in the line up. Obviously if you need more power, then you have no choice but to move up the line.
guyl
19 posts
 
I have a Ref 75 SE and it's the best amp I've never had in my system. It has beaten a Pass X250.5 and Classe stereo amp in direct shootout. It shoots way above its 75W. Initially I was not sure that would be enough but in my room (14X18X7) it can reach ear piercing levels and the needle barely moves.

Sweet highs, mids to die for and excellent bass for its size. Much better and deeper bass than many ss I've tried although to be fair, I know some mono-blocks would provide that little extra some people are looking for.  I use a JL F113 sub to complement it and I'm not needing more bass.
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