WHICH ARC LINESTAGE TO REPLACE LS-15?

Joel,
The sonic qualities of the Ref3 seem to be causing much drooling in the audio world. However: 1. I can't afford one and 2. it is way over the top in flexibility and features.
The maximum number of inputs I would ever likely need would be 2 with 1 set of outputs, ok maybe 2 one RCA and 1 XLR. Let's hope they come out with a simpler, kinder (in the pocketbook) version with similar sound quality. If the LS26 fits this bill I could be very interested.

I owned an ls25 mk1 for awhile and thoroughly enjoyed it. I tried a ref1 and couldn't get it out of my system fast enough. Everyone rave's about the ls5 as I'm sure you're aware (I've never heard one), but it has no remote and is all xlr input/outputs. Always wanted to try the ls25 mk2 (never heard a 6h30 based pre), but after exhaustive research (and too many people saying 6h30 is more ss sounding), went with the Aesthetix Calypso and could never go back to the ls25 mk1. I do believe that I'm going to own this Calypso for many, many years. But again, I did enjoy the ls25 mk1 while it was in my system. FWIW, hope this helps...

I am usually very reluctant to give recommendations on audio gear since perceived performance is so dependent on listener preferences, associated gear and listening environment. However, the LS25 MKI, with NOS 6922 (6H23), is a very musical and transparent performer. Coupled with the ARC VT100 mkII the LS25 MKI produces a huge, coherent and transparent 3D soundstage, with excellent dynamics and articulation. At about $2000 used, it is hard to beat.

The LS16 is not going to do much over what you have right now.

I have said so much on this site on the LS5 so I will simply say that with the VT130 for which I also owned and ran with, the LS5 was an awesome match....especially with the VT130 loaded up with KT88's. The LS5 does come with an optional remote for volume and this works mighty fine.

As for the LS5 having only balanced ins/outs, since your VT130 only has balanced inputs, this is not an issue. And just about every source out there today has XLR outputs....some of which are truly balanced. I liked the LS5's all-balanced topology since it did not have all those klugey circuits to convert to/from single-ended which results in sonic degradation.

If you are seeking something in the $1800-2300 range, the LS5 II/III has no peers IMO. The Ref1 is way over priced and for all the LS5 owners I knew that also auditioned the Ref1, we all kept our LS5 II's and III's.

I did not hear the Ref 2 Mk I but this was the last ARC line stage to use the 6922 and this just may be worth hunting down. And then look into dropping Mullard 6922 tubes in this. Wow, could be mighty good! Whatever you do, if you end up with a 6922 tube-based model, donate the Sovtek tubes to charity. They put a most un-natural bite and fatigue to the sound. And no amount of circuit design or correction can resolve this whether it is an ARC, CAT, Aesthetix, etc., product.

John

Thanks to all for your feedback

Based on your recommendations I'm narrowing down to LS5 Mk III, LS25 Mk I and Ref Two Mk I

I'm looking for 240V unit... but does anyone have experience in modifying a US unit from 110V to 240V?