2. amps-preamps
  3. 1014125087

Preamp dilemma...

Just sold my Audio Research LS15 to upgrade preamp. System is:

Basis 2001/Graham 2.2/MBenz m.09
Arcam Alpha 9 CD
AR PH3
AR VT100MkII
ProAc 2.5's

I've been pleased, just looking for improved soundstage, dynamics; if I had to choose, I would say I would better tolerate some warmth in the system, but still want detail. Love nothing more than being drawn into the music. Listen to vinyl/CD about 60/40.

Preamps on the list:

AR LS25MkII
Thor TA-1000
SF Line3
Joule LA100

I have a fairly long IC run to the amp (5 meters), but I'm hearing that balanced vs. single-ended isn't the silver bullet it was once thought to be, as evidenced by many high-end units only being made w/SE outs. My big concern is compatibility with the VT100MkII and the PH3, since there's no way I'm going to be able to audition many of these. Opinions on these (or is there a glaring omission that would work here?)
chazmo
audiotomb's avatar
audiotomb
1,112 posts
 
chazmo

definitely stay away from the LS25 or 22

the only arc amps outside reference that could handle long runs (5 meters) are the LS2 and LS5
these were designed when mono blocks near speakers were all the rage
after that they went cheap on the power transformers
and were caught up in the home theatre bypasses and skimped big time on the power supply. And you can hear the results!
rec
328 posts
 
I have to disagree about the LS25 Mark 11. I recently auditioned the Reference 11 and the LS25 in my system. I found the LS25 very close in sound to the Ref.11 at a considerable less cost. The LS25 is not a all tube design and has a less tube sound than many AR preamps and in my system was very transparant. Of course this is all very subjective and system dependent. I used a Jeff Rowland Model 10 amp with the LS25 and thought it was a good match. I bought the LS25 and have been very happy with it. I would at least try it in your system to see if it works for you. It should be a great match with the AR amp and phono. Good luck.
gregm
3,405 posts
 
Another choice could be the CAT Ultimate (or the earlier III). Dynamics, rythm, transient attack and resolution are all good -- but, musicality is its strength.
audiotomb's avatar
audiotomb
1,112 posts
 
rec

the ls25 and ref 1 are in the same league
the ls5 is in a league with the ref 2
which is well beyond the ls25
bhilbert
1 posts
 
I just bought a McComack TLC and am encountering gournd loop with the connection of my dish audio to it. Can any one help?
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