Just wanted to get back to everyone with an update. I sold my SP-16 and picked up an LS-26 which I installed on Friday. I'm very pleased with the results. In comparing the two through the linestage only the LS-26 is simply cleaner, more detailed, relaxed, natural and focused. Basically it comes down to distortion--less of it allowing the music to come through without editorializing. Next step is to add a PH-5 or PH-7 if I can raise the funds. For those concerned that the LS-26 represents the "new" ARC sound and is somehow more clinical than past equipment, in my experience so far the LS-26 retains the body and naturalness of the SP-16 but adds dynamics, resolution, spatial cues and focus. Yeah, it's not as fat sounding as the SP-16 but fat isn't accurate and the LS-26 manages to pair accurate and natural in a way that is simply more believable.
System Advice Please
Well, it's time to do my part to help the ailing economy. I'm looking at an electronics upgrade in the near future and could use your input. Current system features Daedalus Audio DA-1.1 speakers driven by an ARC 150.2 and SP16 preamp. An Esoteric X-03SE and VPI Scout/Dyna 20XM round out the sources. Cables are Empirical Design all the way around.
Right now I'm focusing on the electronics with the goal of substantially improving my vinyl playback and getting better sound all around--particularly dynamics, detail and staging.
Here are the options I'm considering:
Art Audio/Gill Alana preamp with built in phonostage OR Modwright 9.0SWLP Signature Edition preamp. These will most likely be driving a McCormack DNA-125 with platinum mods or a stock DNA-500.
I'd appreciate your thoughts on either of these preamps, particularly those of you who have paired either with the McCormack amps.
The other option is to keep my ARC 150.2 and add an LS-26 with a PH5 phonostage.
Thoughts? Thanks everyone.
Right now I'm focusing on the electronics with the goal of substantially improving my vinyl playback and getting better sound all around--particularly dynamics, detail and staging.
Here are the options I'm considering:
Art Audio/Gill Alana preamp with built in phonostage OR Modwright 9.0SWLP Signature Edition preamp. These will most likely be driving a McCormack DNA-125 with platinum mods or a stock DNA-500.
I'd appreciate your thoughts on either of these preamps, particularly those of you who have paired either with the McCormack amps.
The other option is to keep my ARC 150.2 and add an LS-26 with a PH5 phonostage.
Thoughts? Thanks everyone.
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