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Used Audio Research Preamp Options

Before I pose my question, I do admit that I expect mixed responses since the question is somewhat subjective. That been said, I think I have pushed myself into an obsession to own an Audio Research preamp. I know there are better preamps out there for the money and I might ultimately overcome this obsession but I'd like to hear from folks who have owned different ARC preamp's over the years about their personal experiences. So here is my question: if you had $2500 to spend, which used ARC preamp would you buy? A line stage component would be fine, tube or SS. I'm also making an assumption which may not be completely valid and that is any of these preamps will be an upgrade from my NAD C165BEE. Any comments will be appreciated here too. My other components are McIntosh MC2200 (100K impedance) and a Vincent SP-331 ( 47K impedance,150w in 8 ohm/300w 4 ohm) amplifiers. Not sure if speakers matter- ML Aerius, Def. Tech. BP20 since I'm also looking for an upgrade route there too. Thanks.

kalali
initforthemusic
282 posts
 
ARC have a fine pedigree in Pre-Amps and can understand the desire to own one. Tremendously reliable and upgradeable and beautifully designed, most of them have a certain " magic" about them. I still have a massively upgraded SP9Mk11 which has been upgraded way past a Mk111, I stll enjoy. Upgraded the phono is very nice.

But for the money, and as you require line only, I would strongly advise a brand new Vincent SA-T8. You should be able to find one under your budget. Fully balanced tube design, superbly dimensional and musically involving it will draw you into the music like few others. Competes with or surpasses Pre's many times it's cost.
oregonpapa's avatar
oregonpapa
4,867 posts
 
Kalali ...

You asked about further upgrades to your system. Okay, here goes ... Get rid of the Martin Logan Aries and get a speaker that is more efficient and that moves more air. 

I had the ML's for a few years. I changed them for a pair of used Legacy Signature III's.  There are plenty of reviews of the Sig. III's on the net. They love tube amps. The first time I heard them was at a friends home. He was driving them with a modified Dyna 70. The sound was so good that I put my Martin Logans on the market the next day and found a mint condition used pair of Legacy Signature III's on Ebay for $2100. My electronics at the time was an ARC Classic 60 and an ARC SP-14. 

On the preamps ... I've had an ARC SP-6, an SP-14 and I'm currently using an ARC-REF 3.  The ARC SP-14 was in the system for about 10 years. Very nice line stage ... and the one-tube phono section is excellent. 

OP
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
538 posts
 

 You can search multiple sites using hifishark.com

 There is an LS25 mk2 for sale on the AudioCircle Marketplace for $2500.

 There is a Ref 2 mk2 here on Audiogon for  $3,250.00

 Both prices are probably somewhat negotiable. 


erik_squires
16,676 posts
 
Hi Kalali,

To my ears with AR there's a real dividing line over the past 10 years or so and everything that came before. I find the modern AR sound, in SS or Tube, much more enjoyable, fun and natural. Of course, saying that immediately puts my life at risk from those early AR die hards.  The point is,  you should learn which AR sound you like first.

Before buying I'd also listen to PrimaLuna, Conrad Johns on and Cary.
kalali's avatar
kalali OP
1,977 posts
 
I looked for the Vincent SA-T8 a little while back and it appears that it is no longer sold, at least here in US. The closest model I could find is a hybrid unit and the upgraded version sells for ~$1500. In general, I think their products are underrated based on my own personal experience with their amp which I bought new. As for ARC, I'll keep my eyes open for an LS25 MK2 or SP14, or stretch out for a Ref 2 MK2.

And thanks for the tip on Legacy speakers.
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