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Used Audio Research Preamp Options

Before I pose my question, I do admit that I expect mixed responses since the question is somewhat subjective. That been said, I think I have pushed myself into an obsession to own an Audio Research preamp. I know there are better preamps out there for the money and I might ultimately overcome this obsession but I'd like to hear from folks who have owned different ARC preamp's over the years about their personal experiences. So here is my question: if you had $2500 to spend, which used ARC preamp would you buy? A line stage component would be fine, tube or SS. I'm also making an assumption which may not be completely valid and that is any of these preamps will be an upgrade from my NAD C165BEE. Any comments will be appreciated here too. My other components are McIntosh MC2200 (100K impedance) and a Vincent SP-331 ( 47K impedance,150w in 8 ohm/300w 4 ohm) amplifiers. Not sure if speakers matter- ML Aerius, Def. Tech. BP20 since I'm also looking for an upgrade route there too. Thanks.

128x128kalali
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
479 posts
 

 I have to agree with statman. I have also owned a lot of Audio Research preamps over the last 25 years or so. If I only had $2500 to spend on a preamp, it would be an LS25 mk2. I owned one for years until I bought my Ref 5se. It is a killer preamp for the money. The mk2 version uses the 6h30 tube instead of the earlier 6922 tube.

 
michaela
288 posts
 
@statman and lost bears

How does the LS5 mk 2 or 3 compare to the LS25 mk 2? I've seen LS5's for about $ 2500.00 over the years and they seem to retain their value. I owned one a number of years back and thought it was an excellent preamp. It was supposedly the last model preamp that still retained ARC's tube sound. I eventually sold it and went along the McIntosh route.

Mike
statman's avatar
statman
282 posts
 
Believe it or not, I have never listened to the LS5. Maybe Lost Bears can provide more of an answer.
kalali's avatar
kalali OP
1,645 posts
 
Thanks. There was an LS25 MK2 here for $2500 but it is no longer available. The models that I see are mostly SP16, SP17, and an LS26. I see an LS3 for $900. I assume it's not a popular model. Are SP models generally better than LS? I know the REF models are top flight. Appreciate the inputs. So you guys seem to think that even a 15-20 year old ARC is going to be better than my one year old NAD preamp.... it actually sounds pretty decent..
ebm
5,165 posts
 
I had ARC SP8,SP10 and SP15 which was upgraded with better caps,wiring etc. Wonderful units however this being said my Thoress is a much better sounding preamp more dynamic,better stage etc.Enjoy
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