As the Audio Research web site has not been updated with information on the new Ref 3 linestage, I thought of pasting here the OCRed content of the entire blurb on the device that I have recently received from Audio Research. So, here it goes. . .
If you were interested, the text was generated using the ABBYY Fine Reader V7.0 recognition engine at 400DPI in grayscale. No manual error correction has been applied.
audio research
HIGH DEFINITION®
3900 ANNAPOLIS LANE NORTH / PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-5447 / PHONE: 763-577-9700 FAX 763-577-0323
Introducing the REFERENCE 3
Introduced more than five and a half years ago, the REF2 has received a continuous stream of accolades from around the world. True to its name, it has become the reference line-stage preamplifier, purchased new by a thousand music lovers and coveted by thousands more. With the MKII version four years old, it is time to push the performance envelope once again. We are proud to introduce the new REFERENCE 3, with a retail price of US$9,995.00.
"Breakthrough" is an overused term, but it is the most fitting word to describe the REF3. As you can probably imagine, it is difficult to write about a new product like this without sounding cliched, but the REF3 is so good that it is startling when you hear it in your system. How is its presentation superior to the great products that have preceded it? Simply, in every way. The REF3 is more musically transparent. It presents a soundstage that makes everything else sound one-dimensional. There is pinpoint focus of voices and instruments. The deep, powerful bass is fast, articulate, and controlled. It posesses a dynamic swing that is breathtaking. And, most importantly, there is a directness and immediacy that connects the listener with the performance. The results are simply thrilling.
Externally the same dimensions as its predecessors, the REF3 is new inside and out. The front panel marries the classic Audio Research look with a modern display and intuitive controls that will be appreciated. In the middle of the panel is a large display which can show the volume level (numerically and via line graph), input, and operating status (including BAL/SE, Mute, Mono, and Phase). Flanking the display are two knobs which control volume and input. Under the display, in place of the toggles, are four soft touch switches controlling Power, Processor input, BAL/SE, and Mute. The new remote controls all front panel functions plus the balance control, and also a display readout of the number of operating hours the vacuum tubes have been in service! It will be easy to integrate the REF3 with system controllers from companies like Crestron or AMX. Inputs are direct access, and there are discreet codes for power on/off, processor on/off, etc.
The rear panel is the same as the REF2 except for the deletion of the tape monitor input. The REF3 does not have the ability to listen to one source while taping another. Also, the IEC connector for the removable power cord has changed from 15A to 20A.
The remarkable level of performance has been achieved with all new audio and power supply circuits. There are four new circuit boards and two new transformers. The new audio circuit is pure tube, Class-A, with zero feedback, utilizing a total of four long-life 6H30 twin triodes. FETs are
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P.2 REFERENCE 3 introduction
used for constant-current sources, and the analog circutry uses a long-tailed pair input stage to provide the same performance in either single-ended or balanced operation. Total gain is 12dB balanced, 6dB single-ended. The hybrid power supply has over 50% greater energy storage than its predecessors, greatly contributing to its tremendous dynamic capability. There are other improvements which can be seen on the bench. Bandwidth has increased from 60kHz to 200kHz; noise has been reduced by 12dB; headroom is much higher, with the maximum input increased to 20 V balanced, and distortion has been lowered by 40%. The advancements of the REF 3 are both audible and measurable. As you would expect, older REF preamps cannot be updated to the REF3.
It will be easy to hear and see how the REF3 extends the boundaries of preamplifier design. With its great build quality, versatility and the ability to musically transform every system, the REF3 also represents great value. Building upon the foundation of its famed predecessors, the REF3 will be a resounding success. Call your Audio Research dealer to schedule a personal audition.
Model Reference 3
Limited Warranty
Audio Research Corporation products are covered by a 3-Year Limited Warranty, or a 90-Day Limited Warranty (vacuum tubes). This Limited Warranty initiates from the date of purchase, and is limited to the original purchaser, or in the case of demonstration equipment, limited to the balance of warranty remaining after original shipment to the retailer or importer.
In the United States, the specific terms, conditions and remedies for fulfillment of this Limited Warranty are listed on the warranty card accompanying the product in its shipping carton, or may be obtained from the authorized retailer or from the Audio Research Customer Service Department. Outside the United States, the authorized importing retailer or distributor has accepted the responsibility for warranty of Audio Research products sold by them. The specific terms and remedies for fulfillment of the Limited Warranty may vary from country to country. Warranty service should normally be obtained from the importing retailer or distributor from whom the product was purchased.
In the unlikely event that technical service beyond the ability of the importer is required, Audio Research will fulfill the terms and conditions of the Limited Warranty. Such product must be returned at the purchaser's expense to the Audio Research factory, along with a photocopy of the dated purchase receipt for the product, a written description of the problem(s) encountered, and any information necessary for return shipment. The cost of return shipment is the responsibility of the purchaser.
Specifications
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: +0 -3dB 0.2Hz to 200kHz at rated output. (BALANCED, 200k ohms load.)
DISTORTION: Less than .01 % at 2V RMS Balanced output.
GAIN: Main output (SE or BAL input): 11.6dB Balanced output, 5.6dB Single Ended output. Tape output: OdB. (Processor input: OdB Balanced)
INPUT IMPEDANCE: 120K ohms Balanced, 60K ohms SE, Inputs (7): CD, TUNER, VIDEO, PHONO, AUX 1, AUX 2, PROCESSOR. (XLR and RCA connectors).
OUTPUT IMPEDANCE: 600 ohms Balanced, 300 ohms SE main (2), 20K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance. Outputs (3): 2 main, 1 tape (XLR and RCA connectors).
OUTPUT POLARITY: Non inverting
MAXIMUM INPUT: 20V RMS maximum Balanced, (10V RMS SE).
RATED OUTPUTS: 2V RMS (1V RMS SE) into 200K ohm balanced load (maximum balanced output capability is 30V RMS at less than 0.5% THE at 1 kHz).
CONTROLS: Volume (104 steps), Select Input. Push Buttons: Power, Proc, BAL/SE, Mute.
POWER SUPPLIES: Electronically regulated low and high voltage supplies. Automatic 40 sec. warm-up/brown-out mute. Line regulation better than .01 %.
NOISE: 2.7uV RMS residual IHF weighted balanced equivalent input noise with volume at 1 (106dB below 2V RMS output.)
TUBE COMPLEMENT: (4)-6H30P dual triodes, plus (1 each) 6L6GC and 6H30P in power supply.
POWER REQUIREMENTS: 100-135VAC 60Hz (200-270VAC 50/60Hz) 125 watts.
DIMENSIONS: 19" (48 cm) W x 7" (17.8 cm) H (standard panel) x 15.5" (39.4 cm) D. Handles extend 1V21' (3.8 cm) forward of the front panel.
WEIGHT: 29.6 lbs. (13.5 kg) Net; 43 lbs. (19.5 kg) Shipping. Specifications subject to change without notice. ©2004 Audio Research Corporation.
