2. amps-preamps
  3. 1077561850

ARC LS-5MKIII or ARC LS-25MKII

Hi,
I am looking for a second hand preamp to my SONY SCD-555ES player(moded European model with balanced outputs), ARC CL-120 amps(balanced), Proac One Sc speakers set up.

I have two offers: ARC LS5 MKIII and LS25MKII for roughly the same price.

Would need the help of those who had the chance to compare these preamps or owned them.

Any comment would be welcomed!

Thanks,
Csaba
csaba
elgordo
530 posts
 
Since I've never heard, much less owned, either piece you should take my comments as hear-say (or heresy, if you prefer). I believe the general feeling is that the LS-5 is one of the all time greats from ARC. Bear in mind that it has XLR (balanced) inputs and outputs ONLY. If you need RCA ins/outs in the future, this could be a problem as it's not as simple as using adapters. Leonard at ARC can explain why.
ramses
39 posts
 
ARC LS5 HAS MORE EUPHONIC BLOOM COMPARED TO LS25
s23chang
619 posts
 
Definitely LS5.
smotyka
62 posts
 
Since you have balanced components already, I would take the LS5. You could then get a hold of some 7308/6922 tubes to replace the Sovteks, assuming that is what you're getting.

If you want to continue spending like the rest of us, you can send the unit to Steve Huntley at GNS & he can replace the power cord with an EIC plug.

There's no end to it.

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