Audio Research Ref3 vs VTL 6.5 or 7.5II

Hello,

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Our website is: www.musicalsounds.us

Happy Listening

Three years ago when I decided I wanted change my system to a tube system (from rowland) I narrowed it down to VTL and Audio Research.

I started to lean towards VTL then two years ago I was at CES and had a demo between the 6.5 and Ref3.

It was so long ago that I can remember specific differences between the two units however I do recall enjoying the 6.5 over the Ref3 with every cut that was played.

One thing to note as well we took the tops of both units and looked in side. the VTL looked like it had beefier components.

I ended up with the VTL along with their amps.

I've heard the 7.5II in a few different systems but never A/B'd I think the 7.5 is a fantastic pre-amp.

I'm banging the VTL drum for sure, however I'm happy I've gotten to a point where I just sit down and play music with out thinking about components.

Now I just think about new components when I'm bored at work.

Thanks Elevenmg.

I have asked some of my friends the same question. Most of them prefer VTL 6.5. However, none of them have experience on VTL 7.5II.

BTW there are speculations that ARC may launch a Ref5 next year: http://www.desirableaudio.blogspot.com/ .