2. amps-preamps
  3. 1105718947

ARC users please

I have been trying many different budget preamps just for the fun of it. I have stumbled upon a Audio Research SP7.
This thing sounds amazing. Any preamp under $1000.00 that I put in my system doesn't come close to the sound of the SP7.
Everything else I try sounds like it is in mono compared to the SP7. I don't know how to describe the difference. The sound is more alive and every instrument is in place.
My question, is this a signiture ARC sound ?
I have read good and bad reviews of the LS3. So I am not sure if I need to look for a certain model to upgrade to, but still keep that synergy in my system that I have now.
Thanks, Scott
scottht
ecclectique
509 posts
 
Hello Chang. I would certainly concurr with your observations, I have owned an Sp-10 mk2 since it was first introduced and I personally believe it to be the finest preamp ARC ever produced [haven't heard the latest reference 3]and yes,it's in a whole higher leaugue than the sp-8. However,Scott was comparing preamps for under $1000. If you can find me another SP-10 for under a kilo buck I will buy every one you can find.
scottht OP
398 posts
 
So here it is.
My system is this. Pair of Rogue Magnum 120's
Vandersteen 2C's
VPI Hw 19 TT w/ Grado Reference Sonata
All Discovery IC's
Apature Silver Speaker Cables
Graham Slee Era Gold phono stage
CAL CL15 CD
I listen to mostly vinyl, 60's and 70's rock.
What preamp do I want ?
Thanks, Scott
newbee
4,768 posts
 
I really don't know what pre amp you want. Like Ecclectique, I have had a SP10II since it first came out and have no intent to part with it. If I didn't have it I would buy a used CAT or a MFA Lumi. But these are beyond your budget. My recommendation to you in the ARC line would be a later edition of the SP8. If you want to stay in really high end SS you might find a Threshold HL10e - it's a line stage, but since you already have a phono stage it could work for you. You should easily find one within your budget.
yioryos's avatar
yioryos
723 posts
 
Scott
Enjoy your Rogue 120's.I got the M-150's in a separate system and closing on a deal for the Magnum 99 pre.A little over 1000$ for a used one though.We got the same musical taste I see.
Regards
George
ecclectique
509 posts
 
Hey George.A Magnum 99? Now your talking, it's a real beauty and a great match with your amplifiers. I'm taking bets your love affair with the LS-3 will come to an end very quickly.
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