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Should I consider the newer Audio Research pre & power amps, when I play records not CD's

I worked in and owned upper end audio stores back in the 1970's. (McIntosh B&O Magnepan, etc) I have been pretty much out of audio for the past 30 years. In my old age, I want to play the records I have saved (many MFSL & Japanese virgin vinyl) I kept my B&O linear 4002 W/mmc20CL cart. and it still works and I have newer B&W 804 speakers. I am going to get a new table of better quality. I have always wanted an Audio Research tube amp and Preamp. I am considering the LS 26 or LS17SE Preamp and older D90/115 or newer VS 115 or the Ref 75SE. I am in my 60's and my hearing is not as good as it was, plus I am lost with all the digital technology. (just started using a smart phone) I just wanted to get opinions spending $4000 on older ARC or bite the bullet and spend in the $7000 up. Is it worth spending the money for the new equipment when I am only playing records. 
128x128juke4u
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,656 posts
 
The LS26 and the LS17 are line stage only. Most preamps made in the last twenty years are line stage only. There are some that have phono,but not Audio-Research.
rshak
417 posts
 
I second the suggestion that you consider PrimaLuna.  I've owned a DiaLogue Premium Integrated for three years and have been very happy with it.  I also listen to a lot of LPs and have a separate phono stage (Eastern Electric tube model) hooked up to the amp.

I bought the amp from Upscale Audio (Kevin Deal) - very knowledgeable 
and helpful. The money you save with a PrimaLuna could be applied towards a higher end TT/cartridge.  In my case I have a Rega P9 with RB1000 mated to a wonderful Ortofon Jubilee cart. Very happy with the performance.



dweller's avatar
dweller
3,781 posts
 
The Audio Research SP-20 preamp includes a phono stage (and DAC, I believe).
I'd also look at a McIntosh C22 tube preamp w/phono.
Welcome back! 
mb1audio02
188 posts
 
" I am considering the LS 26 or LS17SE Preamp and older D90/115 or newer VS 115 or the Ref 75SE."

If you must have ARC tube amp and preamp, Find a good used VT-100 (Mk 1, 2 or 3 are all OK.), and take the rest of the money and buy the best preamp you can afford.
juke4u's avatar
juke4u OP
50 posts
 
I appreciate the help very much. I never realized I was so far out of date. I listened to ARC years ago but could not afford it. I am not dead set on ARC and am now realizing there are great companies out there, producing a high quality products. Why do you need DACs and what are some good phono preamps?
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