Audio Research Foundation Series


Hello Folks,

I am wondering if anyone can share their experiences with Ref 6 or LS28.  I like the new look, it's growing on me and I have been waiting on LS28 before I can make up my mind. Just at half the price of Ref 6, one can't help wonder how good it would sound or get close to delivering the sonics of Ref 6.  

My other consideration is BAT VK-53SE but it's just as expensive as Ref 6.  And frankly, I like the looks of Ref 6 or LS28 better than BAT. Having said that, looks is only secondary, what's inside the chassis matters the most :-)

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/audio-research-introduces-foundation-series/

Thank you for your time! 
128x128lalitk
Reviving this thread from the dead...

Just had the opportunity to listen to the LS-28 pre and VT-80 amp powering Focal Sopra 3’s. No special cabling and the feed was Tidal from an iPad headphone out (seriously...).

Simply outstanding soundstage (breadth and depth) and incredible detail. I’ve heard systems (in dealer showrooms that were well set up) costing an order of magnitude more that would maybe eclipse this setup by a few percent. It was really, really good. Shockingly good for the price point. I can’t say how much was the AR gear and how much was the Focals, but I’m sold on the setup. I can't imagine what the system could do with better source material and a better DAC. 

I strongly recommend a listen if you’re in the market for a new pre and/or amp.
Just as an aside and contrary to general expectations, playing Tidal HiFi through an ipad or iphone headphone jack sounds real good. I do that a lot when visiting new friends some with systems much better than mine and just take my adapter cable - minijack to stereo RCA, and plug it in right into their preamp. The look on their faces is priceless...and most sign up for the subscription after I leave.
iPhone or iPad analog audio out is pretty good considering the price point.