SS Pre-amps that can beat an Audio Research sp16

Al, I revisited the Sterophile measurements on the sp16. It shows pretty flat and extended frequency response into 100Kohm output impedance, which is what the BC amp input impedance is. Hard to find any fault with that, for sure. When I get some time, I'll see if I can find comparable measurements for some of the other pre-amps I am interested in.

Also reviewed published measurements on OHM Walsh speakers similar to mine in "The Audio Critic" and the BC amps in Stereophile.

BC amps are fairly flat and extended measuring less than 1db down at 20khz into 8 ohms.

The OHM Walsh measurements indicate impedance is well above 8 ohms down to about 300 hz, dipping down to about a 3.8 ohm low at ~40hz, then rises again.

Those paper specs would seem to integrate pretty well and be in synch with the good sound I actually hear with this 3 way combo of ARC, BC, and OHM.

It might not be easy for a SS pre-amp to beat, at least on paper but all I really need is something at minimum in the same league for sure.

10-29-13: Mapman
When I mention bandwidth, what I am really looking for is better low end extension. Sp 16 has very clean and articulate bass but not as extended as even my old Carver pre-amp, though the sp16 whoops it in most every other way.

I have owned 3 ARC preamps, though not the SP16, but I can say that your description of the bass sounds very similar to my experiences with all three of my ARC preamps. They are high definition for sure, lots of detail, but they do lack a bit of musical weight.

JMC,

Thanks for the Klyne suggestion. Was not familiar with those but very intriguing. A good built in SS phono pre-amp that could work with my low output Denon dl103R out of the box without a step up transformer like I use currently would be a big bonus!

The thing is with the ARC bass is it does sound pretty much as good as it gets with most material. I really don't listen much to pipe organ music, though I do enjoy such things. MAybe I should just let a good thing be. Or consider adding subs at some point if I really feel a need. There is a new model from OHM, the 5015s, same size as my 5s, but with powered subs built in for about another $4K. Maybe some day....

I don't know how available this is considering Jim just passed earlier this year, but I believe the SST Ambrosia would fit the bill.
I've heard most of your list and would say the Bel Canto pre 3 is the most neutral on your list.... If affordable, I'd head to the Spread Spectrum Ambrosia....
Good Luck,
Tim

I'm a pretty died in the wool ARC guy, but I have to agree that Ayre makes a great pre that has as close a flavor to ARC as i have heard in ss pres of affordable price.