ARC Ref 5se VS ARC Ref 6

Copied over from another ARC thread:

Just traded in my ARC Ref 5SE for a ARC Ref 6 today. Here are my reactions, … FWIW.  

Is the Ref 6 a better sounding unit than the Ref 5SE? IMO, yes. Here's why. First off, bass is tighter, but not in an exaggerated sense. Just better low end and midrange detail. The sound stage is more open. I get a sense that there's less clutter to the imaging and a more coherent presentation of the musical performance. To my old ears, it is a palpable difference. To die for? No. But to appreciate and enjoy? Yes.

That said, do I think the Ref 5SE is a sonic slouch? Absolutely not! Both units share similar ARC house sound characteristics. But the Ref 6 does tease out more detail and a better sense of a uniform sound stage with few gaps.  

I surmise that the Ref 10 and Ref 40 are of similar genre to the Ref 6, ... just more of the same. Admittedly, I have never heard the Ref 10 or Ref 40, but generously assume (based on member comments) that they are a cut above the Ref 6.

As I listen to more source material, I will add more comments if I think worth passing along.  

Regards,

BIF

Is anyone using S/S amplification with the ref 6 and if so, what? 

russellrcncom-

Ayre and Bryston are sonic matches with ARC pre-amps. I have heard these combos over the years in different systems, different dealers & retailers to excellent effect.   Happy Listening!

@russellrcncom ............Yes i am using a Krell FPB 600 with my ARC ref 6 with superb results ... 

tattoedtrackman
You do own a killer system!  Happy Listening!