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Audio Research Ref 6 vs 6SE

Would like to learn about the difference between ARC Ref 6 and 6 SE. Information in the web said that 6 SE involves upgrading 18 capacitors and 14 runs of wiring. And, owners of ARC Ref 6 can upgrade it to 6SE at a cost of $3,000.
How far is the actual difference in listening? Does it worth the money to upgrade? Would dealers in different parts of the world able to do the upgrade which seems to be done on site?
cclee2022
fsonicsmith's avatar
fsonicsmith
962 posts
 
I apologize for hi-jacking the thread but I am approaching 1500 hours on my Ref 6 and will be buying 6H30PI's. Seems like my choices are ARC and Upscale. Any other suggestions for top quality versions of this tube?
I love Upscale for tubes so I will probably just pull the trigger with them. They offer an "ARC selection" grade but are out of stock of EH version and just have the Sovtek version (which is likely fine). 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,935 posts
 
i got my recent set from Johnny R @audioconnection , great service and tubes
ghdprentice
7,086 posts
 
I have used ARC, Upscale, and The Tube Store. For my ARC equipment I usually go to ARC. They have meticulous break in procedures, and also, I like to support the company. But you can save some money going to Upscale. 
mossyrocks
19 posts
 

I have the Ref 6 paired with a Bryston 4b cubed.

Would appreciate feedback on successful amp pairings to the ref6.

 

Thanks

ghdprentice
7,086 posts
 

Audio Research Reference 160m monoblocks or REF160s stereo. Before this I paired with a Pass 350. The REF 160 is just completely different and better in every way on my system. 

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