2. amps-preamps
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Should I consider the newer Audio Research pre & power amps, when I play records not CD's

I worked in and owned upper end audio stores back in the 1970's. (McIntosh B&O Magnepan, etc) I have been pretty much out of audio for the past 30 years. In my old age, I want to play the records I have saved (many MFSL & Japanese virgin vinyl) I kept my B&O linear 4002 W/mmc20CL cart. and it still works and I have newer B&W 804 speakers. I am going to get a new table of better quality. I have always wanted an Audio Research tube amp and Preamp. I am considering the LS 26 or LS17SE Preamp and older D90/115 or newer VS 115 or the Ref 75SE. I am in my 60's and my hearing is not as good as it was, plus I am lost with all the digital technology. (just started using a smart phone) I just wanted to get opinions spending $4000 on older ARC or bite the bullet and spend in the $7000 up. Is it worth spending the money for the new equipment when I am only playing records. 
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lostbears's avatar
lostbears
538 posts
 

 I hope you get the Ref 5se. You will feel no need to upgrade for a very long time. It is truly world class. While the speakers are the voice of your system, the preamp is the heart. It has more of an effect on the sound than the amp.

 With an MC cart I would go with a PH7 or PH8. I don't think the PH5 is a good match for a MC cart. Especially if you decide to go with a low output MC. Right now I a have a Fosgate Signature phono stage and I really like it. It is highly adjustable for all types of cartridges.

 I would go with USB output to a DAC as opposed to optical. 

 Let us know what happens.


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cleeds
5,998 posts
 
lostbears
I hope you get the Ref 5se. You will feel no need to upgrade for a very long time. It is truly world class. While the speakers are the voice of your system, the preamp is the heart. It has more of an effect on the sound than the amp.
I agree completely. The ARC Ref5SE is absolutely extraordinary.
juke4u's avatar
juke4u OP
50 posts
 
Update, I purchased an ARC Ref 5SE and a Ref 75 amp. It has to come from one coast to the other and hopefully it will arrive in tact. I will probably upgrade the B&W's to a larger model speakers and may have to get a larger amp or get another Ref 75 and bi-amp. Thanks everyone for the help. I have to turn my attention to a phono preamp and there are so many out there hopefully I will make a good choice. Suggestions welcome in that area. I will also need a DAC at some point. I keep looking at the ARC DAC8 but I have a lot to learn in that area.
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
538 posts
 
 Congratulations! I think you will find the combination just superb.
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