ARC Ref 5se inferior to LS28?

@tomic601  I have a nearly new LS28 sitting in a box I can sell you for the comparison, lol.

I will say, it is 90% of the REF6 that replaced it, in my system (Yggy>REF6>ML CLX and BF210).  Very much cut from the same cloth.  Just lacks some delicacy and clarity as compared to the REF6.  I was actually disappointing that the improvement with the REF6 wasn't greater, particularly given the substantial increase in price.  I guess that is the definition of diminishing returns!!!

My system (Yggy>REF6>ARC150SE>ML-CLX and BF210)

“I will say, it is 90% of the REF6 that replaced it in my system”
+1, @docknow. 

I purchased LS28 after auditioning both at my dealer. And I didn’t think the subtle improvements I heard with Ref6 were worth twice the price. Having said that, if Ref6 was at $10K price point, I would have grabbed Ref6 in a heartbeat. 

I am very happy with my current setup of DAC9 > LS28 > VT80. 

docknow

so in your system a fully broken in LS and REF 6 are 10% different

In my experience the REF's are always better than the LS's.  I think this tactic is a gateway to get you out of your old REF, into the current LS and then ultimately to the new REF.

The tubed power supply is significant.