Audio Research Ref 6 vs Ref 5 SE

Hi mmbl62,

In my opinion, and to answer your original question, if you can get I REF 6 for that price, there is no question in my mind which one is better. Having spent time with the REF 5SE it's a wonderful preamp.

If I never compared it to the 6 I would be more than content. However, comparing the two everything about the REF 6 is just better...

Just more of everything and imaging that makes you want to reach out and grab the musicians! I'm getting much less sleep than I used to. :(

Elem79; You are absolutely correct the Reference 6 is a WOW, no a double wow compared to the 5SE.  I have about 50 hours on mine and I am listening to music more and more.  My wife's complaining on why I am not spending time with her - It is because  I am falling in love with music through my new ARC.

I am blown away by the soundstage, the width and depth of the artist within the soundstage.  The bass is tighter and Ref. 6 is more detailed than the 5SE.  Mmbl622 don't even think about the 5SE you will always wonder what the 6 sounds like.  

here's a couple of review links that compare the 2

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audio-research-introduces-reference-6-line-state-preamplifi...

http://positive-feedback.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/audio-research-ref-6-line-stage/

Happy for you Jonaiken! Maybe our wives should hang out - It really is amazing how good it is and it only gets more effortless and musical as the hours tick by!!