2. amps-preamps
  3. 129070-3652

Tips on dealing with audio dealers

Where I live we don't have stereo stores that handle high end audio equipment. So, I need some guidance. Can I order a preamp from an audio store and have it shipped to me? I know Mcintosh won't let you do that. Does Audio Research? How about prices? Are they set in stone or negotiable? I don't have a dealer and have never dealt with one so can some of you guys suggest a good one? I am considering the REF6 but for a good price I would consider a 5SE. I have heard there are a number of 5SE's for sale but I haven't run into any yet. Any advice you guys can give me would be helpful and much appreciated.
wemfan
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I saw that Audio Connection had one used Ref 5SE on their website on the link that @lowrider57 provided.
I see it listed for $7995, not bad for a dealer price.

https://www.audioconnect.com/products/audio-research-ref-5-se-demo
wemfan OP
66 posts
 
Wow! I sure missed that. I'm going to call on that one. Thanks!!!
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
3,018 posts
 
Keep us posted on your search.
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,180 posts
 
If you want to buy McIntosh stuff look no further than Audioclassics.com, They are the top seller of new and used McIntosh on the east coast! you can buy a preamp from them no problem. Also, Fine Sounds Inc owns McIntosh, Audio Research, Sonus Farber, so it should be fairly easy to find out about these products by calling one place. audioclassics.com there are in Vestal NY.


Matt
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
1,621 posts
 
The real question is what is the rest of your system? The ARC preamp may be excellent or not depending on the synergy of your system and just because someone has brand x amp that doesn't mean that brand x preamp should be used or would sound the best.

If you let us know what components you have I am sure we can make some good suggestions.

Troy
Audio Doctor
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