ARC ref 5SE current or past owners

Icorem ... I can't speak to how the ARC Ref 5 SE compares to the other brands you mentioned. I can only say that I own the Ref 5 SE and am extremely pleased with what it does for my rig. Please note that I probably get the best from the Ref 5 SE because it's part of an all ARC system and I think much can be said for system synergy.

FWIW, I have continuously moved up the ARC product line for a long time. Each equipment move-up was a palpable improvement over the previous item.

My only advice is that you should try to audition the Ref 5 SE. You wrote that you are thinking about buying preowned, which I think is fine as it stands. Not sure how you can manage an audition.

Thanks
I will be able to audition. I'm hesitant as for the impedance matching with my amp in balanced.
Do you use it balanced or single ended ?

My Ref 5 SE is hooked up to my ARC Ref 150 SE via balanced I/Cs. No other choice really.

I pulled this off the ARCDB website re Ref 5 SE impedance matching:

"600 ohms Balanced, 300 ohms SE main (2), **20K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance.** Outputs (3): 2 main, 1 tape (XLR and RCA connectors)." (**emphasis added)

So yeah, watch your amp's input impedance. If less than 20K ohms, it will affect the SQ of the Ref 5 SE. This is especially important if you use the Ref 5 SE as a source for a subwoofer. You have to consider the combined input impedances of both devices.

Btw, don't mix and match output taps, i.e., XLR and SE. ARC advised me NOT to asymmetrically load the Ref 5 SE. If you may have this issue, call ARC. There are solutions, e.g., use of an impedance buffer.

I have the name of a guy who can custom make such a device. I know ... because I used one for my rig a while back. :)

love my REF 5 SE
replaced a MAC SS
can not comment on yours or the alternate as have not heard
home auditions in your system near priceless
i had at home Aesthetix, MAC, Ayre, CJ and a few others. System synergy ruled day for me anyway.
IMO ref will benefit some w tube rolling and isolation like HRS Nimbus
BTW get the metal ARC remote and check plexi cover for cracks.