Audio Research Ref 5 preamp

On 7/6/09, Samuel gave a nice assessment of his early experience with the REF 5, comparing it with the REF 3. Do a search here.

Here is a link to the thread that was referenced above, by Rgurney.

Samuel's Thoughts on the Ref. 3 vs. Ref. 5

It seemed very informative actually.

I too am interested in the discussion, but for the opposite reason. I am very impressed with the Ref. 3, (a friend has one), and I am considering swapping out my preamp for that one. I am hoping that all the Ref. 3 owners will start flooding the market with their used Ref. 3's, in order to buy the new Ref. 5, (that way I can pick up a Ref. 3 cheap.)

FYI, I would think long and hard before giving up the Ref. 3. It is the best preamp ARC has made in a long time, IMHO. (It impresses me quite a bit, whereas the Ref. 1 and 2 were merely very good preamps, and did not impress me in nearly the same way. FYI, my friend with the Ref. 3 upgraded from the Ref. 2, (and from the Ref. 1 before that).

Kurt_tank... You maybe too late on that one..most who do the merry-go-round with ARC gear have already stepped up and dumped the 3..

Thanks for the link Kurt. Grant did a very good job indeed of describing his impressions of the differences between the Ref 3 and the Ref 5. I agree with you that the Ref 3 is very good. Keep in touch, because if I do decide to upgrade to the Ref 5, I'll have one on the market for sale.