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Why Are There So Many Audio Research Reference 5SE's For Sale

Been looking for a tubed preamp with high quality balance capabilities. Was looking at the Ref 5SE's but there seems to be many available. Generally when you see that there is some kind of issue. Sometimes they want to move up the line to the latest or they just arent that good. Case in point when was the last VAC Signature you saw out here. The good stuff seems to be rare and when they show they go fast. Comments and recommendations welcome.

fooolish1
fooolish1 OP
9 posts
 
Did you own the piece? Are you an AR guy? I understand the Anniversary 40 is the one to have but out of my budget

jafant's avatar
jafant
20,658 posts
 

OP-


if you are in the market for an ARC pre-amp, you will be hard-pressed

to find one better than the Ref5 SE.

cleeds
6,317 posts
 
The ARC Ref5SE is a phenomenal preamplifier, as is its companion Ref Phono 2SE phono stage.
theo's avatar
theo
2,731 posts
 

I decided to buy a dealers demo REF5se and couldn't be happier with it. I had intended to buy an LS27 or a Modwright 36.5 but decided this would put me in a better place.

So yes; I am in a better place.

gpgr4blu
1,096 posts
 
Fooolish:
I have had a number of Arc components over the last 7 or 8 years including the Ref 5 and the Ref 40 which I now own. I’m very familiar with the Ref 5se sound which is between the Ref 5 and Ref 40. Obviously, the Ref 40 is noticeably better and is also a steal used if you can assemble the dough. I cannot say that either one is more of a steal at their used price points. I only know I believed I got more than my moneys worth when I paid for each of them at virtually retail when they came out.
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