Both ARC and McIntosh are now owned by an Italian holding company called Fine Sounds Group, along with Sumiko, Sonus faber, et al. Looks like their business model includes narrowing your range of choices.
Audio Research discontinuing lower lines components?
I have looked at several components in Audio Research's line and they are discontinuing the LS17-se, PH8, and PH6. They discontinued the DAC 8. I know there is a new Ref 6 to replace the Ref 5se and their is a new Ref Phono 3 to replace the Ref Phone 2se coming out. I talked to my dealer and he stated that Audio Research seems to be making their components look more McIntosh like in the Galeo series.
The dealer stated their isn't going to be anything that he has heard that will replace the other lines at this point and that AR will be starting at the LS-27, which is $7500 for preamps. The Ref 75se is the beginning of the line for Amps, which I know, but man are they going the Mac route with prices, nothing to replace the DAC 8 and the other DAC in the line is $11,000, what's up with this, have you guys heard anything more.
The starting point for AR equipment is getting pretty high and the only way a newer person without means will be able to afford it will be to buy use, which could send the used prices up if there isn't anything else in the line. What do you guys think and what have you heard?
The dealer stated their isn't going to be anything that he has heard that will replace the other lines at this point and that AR will be starting at the LS-27, which is $7500 for preamps. The Ref 75se is the beginning of the line for Amps, which I know, but man are they going the Mac route with prices, nothing to replace the DAC 8 and the other DAC in the line is $11,000, what's up with this, have you guys heard anything more.
The starting point for AR equipment is getting pretty high and the only way a newer person without means will be able to afford it will be to buy use, which could send the used prices up if there isn't anything else in the line. What do you guys think and what have you heard?
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BTW: Their website is even somewhat, "exclusive": (http://www.finesoundsgroup.com/en-us/brands) Cookies? NO THANKS! |
AR can SUCK it lol. Greed as usual taking over. OK bash me guys with a lot of money but I really don't care because AR has been a great company for years and most of us normal people could afford it but no longer. Look at the used ads here on Audiogon. The last time I looked the cheapest piece was at least $2500. |
- 138 posts total