Tube Amps: CAT JL3's vs ARC Ref 300's

Can anyone provide a comparison of the two amplifier's based on personal experience?

greggille07-07-2005 5:00pm

raquel Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 841 posts 07-07-2005 at 07:46pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I believe Jtinn can respond to this question. Jonathan?
jafox Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,453 posts 07-07-2005 at 09:35pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Hello, As a current owner of the JL-3's and a past owner of ARC Classic60, Classic150 and VT130, I can provide some insight here. The VT130 stereo amp and the VT150 mono amps were the pre-cursor to the ARC "reference" amps. Knowing what speakers you plan to use will have everything to do with whether or not the ARC amp will be up to the CAT challenge. Email me if you'd like specific details. John
bpwalsh Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,199 posts 07-07-2005 at 08:19pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete With what associated equipment, especially loudspeakers? Brian
jtinn Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,124 posts 07-08-2005 at 03:42pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Greg and Drake: The ARC Reference 300 amplifiers are very good, but a bit noisy and glary. The CAT JL3's are much more powerful sounding than their rated wattage. The CAT's are solid state quiet with amazing control. If your choices are limited to just those amplifiers mentioned, I would go for the CAT's. If you are buying used, I would automatically get a new set of tubes from Ken Stevens... you will need them.