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
newbee
4,767 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.
audiotomb's avatar
audiotomb
1,112 posts
 
Scott

if you can handle balanced inputs (or use cheater plugs)
the LS5 is fabulous
and you can team it up with a PH2 for an excellent phono stage

tom
eagleman6722
217 posts
 
Scotthk,

I had an ARC SP9MK2 which is a Hybrid using both tubes and SS and I have the Vandersteen 2CE sigs. I bought some good Amperex tubes and the unit sounded excellent. The phono stage had quite a bit of gain and that was the best phono section that I have heard to date. I have since sold it and bought a Tube Audio Design by Bizzy bee which also has a phono section. While the phono doesn't seem to sound as good as the ARC, the line stage is outstanding, better than the ARC with the Amperex tubes. You can get one new for about $700. I have no reason to change...

Eagleman
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