Audio Research Cheap as Dirt?


As my beloved ARC SP-11 MK II continues to fetch big bucks on the used market, I was a bit surprised to see the low prices for later model line stage preamps.

It never occured to me to buy a solid state ARC product, but perhaps the LS3 is worth a listen for a spare preamp? Or video or desktop system?

If nothing else, it would be nice to have the same ergonomics and build quality as I have in my main system.

In the < $1000 range for systems where I will not need a phono stage, what is the hierarchy of bargains in ARC preamps?
cwlondon
Dweller

Re another league for the LS-2B - better or worse?

Nice thread - more ideas please.
All LS2 preamps have balanced outputs, only the B has balanced inputs as well. Please refer to the back panel photos in the excellent Audio Research Data Base.
http://www.arcdb.ws/LS2/LS2.html