Hello K.D.occonor. I cannot help much on a direct comparison of the supratek to the ARC ref 2 as I have never heard the ref 2 in my own rig. I have owned and very much enjoyed many ARC products over the years. From the original sp-3a preamp, sp-6a to B, sp-8 mk2, sp-10 mk2 [still own] and a brief stint with the sp-11. For me anyway..... the last great preamp from ARC ended with the sp-10. I should qualify things here: I voice all my preamps with vinyl as my main source, as 90% of my listening is through the phono stage. ARC seemed to move into the high resolution, wide bandwidth camp with the introduction of the sp-11 series.I never really cottoned to that sound. For me it was far too clinical or bleached out and robbed the emotion and tonal integrity of the sp-10. I have heard the arc ref 2 on a few occasions in other systems and to my ear... I would still classify it in that same camp, albeit far more refined and articulate than the sp-11. Comparing the line stage of the older sp-10 to the supratek? NO Contest sir. The sp-10 is full bodied with a large and deep soundstage, a somewhat rounded bloomy bottom end and makes for a credible facsimilee of the illusion. However.... the supratek's line stage makes music sound more alive with emotion, it's abilty to retrieve that fine nuance and low level micro imformation thats masked or buried in lesser preamps. Added to it's uncanny dynamic range and bass weight adds up to getting you closer to the sound of a live event. It's clarity and coherency is unmatched in my experience.No contest here! You may want to post here where you reside and perhaps someone close will give you a listen. Even better if you could get a reference 2 for comparative purposes. All the best in your endevour sir.
Preamp Deal of the Century
If anyone is looking for a true "World Class" preamp at a very fair price..heed my advice. I just recieved a Supratek Syrah preamp that was hand built by Mick Maloney in Western Australia, and it is absolutely beautiful! This preamp is the best deal you will ever find. I would put it up against any preamp out there for both looks and sound. Price? $2500 for the Syrah (includes Killer Phono stage). Not into phono? Try the Chardonney line stage for $2100. Don't get me wrong, I am not associated with this company. I am just a very happy owner! This preamp is VERY dynamic, yet liquid. It conveys the sound of music better than any other preamp that I have ever heard! You can check out the Supratek website at www. cantech.net.au
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- 3687 posts total
- 3687 posts total