Audio Research Ref 5 preamp


Hi,

I currently own the ARC Ref 3. I know its early, but I was wondering if anyone has had the opportunity to do a comparison of the new ARC Ref 5 compared to the ARC Ref 3 and if so, what are the sonic differences that you heard. Any input would be helpful. Thanks
128x128babybear
yeah, I have the American version. I originally bought them for extra tube for a Cayin KT 88 (was using 6550s in place of the 88s). Okay, then I will drop the Tung Sol in the ARC REF 5. Thanks for the helpful response.
No, I stand corrected. My Tung-sol 6550s were made in Russia. Even so, they sure sound pretty good to my ears.
I too am a happy owner of the Ref 3 preamp, but I also intend to wait for the Ref 7 preamp which will undoubtedly be audibly superior to the not-yet-released Ref 6 preamp. :)
hi

could you tell me if we can burn the REF 5 without turning on the REF 110
in order to have the 600 hours on counter and improuve the best sound the REF 5 can do ?

thanks
patrice
France
Hi Patrice,

Simply turn on the ref 5, connect a source and play music, the ref 110 does not have to be on. I have been told that each source input has a break-in period, so I would start with the source input you most often critically listen to.

I am totally enjoying my REF 5 and at 700 hrs, the sound is magical.

All the best,
Ken Klein