2. amps-preamps
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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
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
538 posts
 

 They don't show up as often because they are keepers. But if you take your time and search, you can find one. I have not seriously listened to the LS26. IMO the LS27 is not one of ARC's better efforts.

I see a couple of Ref 5se preamps going for $7000 here on Audiogon. That is a deal at almost half price. The Ref 5se is so very much better than the LS27 it is amazing. It is very special and another one that will be a keeper. There are a lot around because people are upgrading to the Ref 6. But I believe they may also become hard to find. 




juke4u's avatar
juke4u OP
50 posts
 
I have missed 2 Ref 3 over the last week. I am going to make an offer on an ARC 5SE and hope I get it. I have also been looking at the ARC 75 and 75SE. Is the SE worth the difference in money? I ordered a VPI turntable and was wondering what phono preamps would be good with probably an Ortofon MC (open to suggestions). I have always like to sound of the Ortofon and I liked a Denon 103D years ago. I have looked at the ARC phono 5 and 7, PS Audio Nuwave, and others but would like some seggestions on phono preamps?
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,468 posts
 
You don't need a DAC.  LIsten to your phono and enjoy your AR.  The suggestions on these posts will confuse the most sane among us.  Just get what you like.  I would make sure that what you buy is in good playing condition...then forget about everything, sit down (maybe with a glass of pino noire)  and enjoy.
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
538 posts
 

 I hope you get the Ref 5se. You will feel no need to upgrade for a very long time. It is truly world class. While the speakers are the voice of your system, the preamp is the heart. It has more of an effect on the sound than the amp.

 With an MC cart I would go with a PH7 or PH8. I don't think the PH5 is a good match for a MC cart. Especially if you decide to go with a low output MC. Right now I a have a Fosgate Signature phono stage and I really like it. It is highly adjustable for all types of cartridges.

 I would go with USB output to a DAC as opposed to optical. 

 Let us know what happens.


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cleeds
5,944 posts
 
lostbears
I hope you get the Ref 5se. You will feel no need to upgrade for a very long time. It is truly world class. While the speakers are the voice of your system, the preamp is the heart. It has more of an effect on the sound than the amp.
I agree completely. The ARC Ref5SE is absolutely extraordinary.
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