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Audio Research comparison

I'd still like to get an un-biased comparison of the old Audio Research Power Amps: VT100 MkII, VT200, REF300 and the newer solid state input versions. I have heard opinions, but they have all been self serving. So I'd like to hear from someone who has really compared the two designs. Also I'm interested in the comparison of the new pre-amp designs with the older ones LS-25 Ref2 with the MkIIs.
blues_man
jazz_nut
14 posts
 
I understand that there is a VT200 MK2 available. Has anyone auditioned one? How does it compare to the original VT200?
gmorris
351 posts
 
AKnorth:

The orginal LS25 is the MKI.

Thanks
gmorris
351 posts
 
Blues_man:

A RefII and VT200 is an awesome combo. Why would you want to upgade?
dacostab
84 posts
 
Another approach to ARC's philosophy....when making substantial upgrades they keep the customer informed, whereas with BAT you do not know which iteration of their product you are purchasing. Does this not make ARC's products easier to price on the resale market ?

I have an SP9 Mk II, which I have owned (trouble-free) for the last 10 years, and am lusting over the VT100.
tubegroover
2,279 posts
 
Well I am probably going to get some heat for the following comments but feel I am entitled to make them since I am a BIG ARC fan and have owned and still do several of their products.

I believe they are on the cutting edge of tube designs. I ALSO believe that their continual upgrading is more about making changes in sound than real changes in sonic performance. Certainly their Reference products (which I have heard) represent an inprovement over their previous products. My guess is that their upgrades are very calculated and designed to keep their customers always wanting for the latest and "best". But in reality many of their upgrades are less improvements than differences. Just one man's opinion, but then again there is quite a variety of opinion on this matter as noted above. I mean the LS-5 is a great sounding pre-amp and an older design. Is there any in their stable other than their reference models maybe, that are better? Playing to the neurosis of audiophiles is my take.
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