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Used Audio Research Preamp Options

Before I pose my question, I do admit that I expect mixed responses since the question is somewhat subjective. That been said, I think I have pushed myself into an obsession to own an Audio Research preamp. I know there are better preamps out there for the money and I might ultimately overcome this obsession but I'd like to hear from folks who have owned different ARC preamp's over the years about their personal experiences. So here is my question: if you had $2500 to spend, which used ARC preamp would you buy? A line stage component would be fine, tube or SS. I'm also making an assumption which may not be completely valid and that is any of these preamps will be an upgrade from my NAD C165BEE. Any comments will be appreciated here too. My other components are McIntosh MC2200 (100K impedance) and a Vincent SP-331 ( 47K impedance,150w in 8 ohm/300w 4 ohm) amplifiers. Not sure if speakers matter- ML Aerius, Def. Tech. BP20 since I'm also looking for an upgrade route there too. Thanks.

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kalali's avatar
kalali OP
1,977 posts
 

Well, there's definitely some truth in both the perception of the glamour and more ARC owners upgrading to newer models. Could be explained as brand loyalty or great marketing but either way, it helps with both desirability and resale value. Another side benefit of these artifacts is there are mere owners out there to provide input of which model/year to buy. I have no doubt there are better preamps out there for a comparable price but its more difficult to get a broad owners' view of how good they are.

bpolleti - Strangely enough, there's a Herron VTSP-3a (R03) for sale right now in A'gon and not much of a stretch from my budget... in case anyone else is looking for one.

kalali's avatar
kalali OP
1,977 posts
 
At the risk of showing my ignorance, I went ahead and hooked up first my CD player and then my Bluesound Node wireless DAC directly t my MC2200. I put those two separate gain controls on the amp to use and the sound quality is quite good, maybe even a tad better than with the NAD preamp in between. I left it with the Bluesound for now since most of my listening is from Tidal or some college radio stations. So assuming I have no need for two of the preamp's main functions; volume control and source switching, would my $2500 buy me better sound if spent on an preamp or elsewhere on the audio path?
kalali's avatar
kalali OP
1,977 posts
 
May be I should start a new thread to ask a different question. But in the meantime, where I stand: I spent a good part of the day experimenting with different configurations and I've now confirmed that I can directly connect either my CD player or the Bluesound Node 2 wireless DAC to my MC2200 and get plenty - actually more than my ears can handle, of volume. Between the gain controls on the MC2200 and the volume control on the Bluesound mobile app, I have no gain/volume issues. The obvious issue is I can only use one source at a time. Should i now be looking for a passive preamp our do I just need to get so sort of a "switch" to select the desired source? If so, this begs the question why more folks take this route and spend mega bucks on a (active) preamp. Does a "good" preamp add to sound quality - soundstaging, imaging, etc., above a direct connection? Sorry if I'm asking the obvious but I was caught a bit off-guard discovering that I could even run my system without a preamp. Thanks as always for your great input.
crazyeddy's avatar
crazyeddy
381 posts
 

There was a thread last week that addressed this exact question about the pre vs non-pre sett up. Have a look and you should easily find it. Personally, I prefer the pre-amp in the chain. I tried bypassing my Audio Research LS-17-SE and running my McIntosh MCD301 direct to my mono blocs. I was not pleased with the sound, and quickly went back to running through the pre-amp. But thats just my my taste. Ultimately it is your ears which will decide whats best for you.

nmolnar
43 posts
 
I had previously owned an Audio Research SP-3 and LS-3 and earlier this year decided to upgrade preamps. After considering some of the excellent suggested used ARC preamps mentioned in the above responses, I decided to pick a new ARC LS-17SE on closeout from an authorized ARC dealer for $2795.00. Overall, I felt this was the best deal for me as the preamp listed for $5995 and was new in a sealed box from a well reviewed and authorized dealer. This unit was discontinued in 2015 as part of ARC's ever changing product lineup.
I thought although there are some good buys available for some used ARC preamps, issues such as lack of warranty, possibility that tubes would need replacement and that given a need to replace caps after (in some cases) within 15-20 yrs., I felt a new unit was the way to go.
Since these units are still available at this price, you may wish to consider that option as well. I have been very satisfied with this unit's build quality and sonic performance and would not hesitate to recommend it as a best buy in the price range that you are looking for.
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