2. amps-preamps
  3. 125228-80275

Audio Research LS15 vs. SP14

I’m not sure about the production date for these preamps but they seem to be within the same price range in the used market, basically within a $1200-$1500. All things being equal, which one do you folks prefer in terms of sound quality. I’ll be using it just as a basic preamp with an SS amp, ML Aerius speakers and a CD player so I don’t need a lot of features, just sound quality. Thanks.

Edited to add Audible Illusions Modulus3 as another option although it's priced somewhat lower than the ARC components referenced.

128x128kalali
jperry
2,453 posts
 
The Audio Research has most of the information you need. The SP probably has a phono stage the LS does not have a phono stage
jl35
4,025 posts
 
there were also two versions of the LS15, most easy to distinguish by the removable power cord on the later version.  there was also a cap and power supply upgrade
jl35
4,025 posts
 
The Phono Stage is a major plus for the SP14
rodman99999
6,159 posts
 
Yes, a nice tubed phono stage in the SP-14 . Also, given the aluminum chassis, it’s very easy to install an IEC socket(ie: C-14), to facilitate the use of an upgraded power cord. 
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
A point to be aware of is that as with many ARC preamps and line stages, the LS15 and SP14 have output impedance characteristics that may make them unsuitable for use with some solid state power amps having lowish input impedances.  Specifically, according to the information at www.arcdb.ws:

LS15:  "40K ohms minimum load and 1000pF maximum capacitance"

SP14:   "Recommended load 60K - 100K ohms and 100pF. (20K ohms minimum and 1000pF maximum)"

The load capacitance recommendation (as opposed to the load resistance recommendation) probably won't be an issue unless the length of the cable to the power amp is particularly long.

Regards,
-- Al
 
More to discover