Pass and ARC

How old is that Ref 2? If it’s early production it could date back 20 years so I’d want to make sure it’s in good working order before pulling the trigger. Technically it will certainly work together and there’s no impedance mismatch or the like but the Ref 2 isn’t exactly the quietest tube preamp out there. Since you’re mainly listening to vinyl the noise issue could get more pronounced depending on your phono stage...and the Heresy IV’s at 99 dB sensitivity will let you hear the noise pretty easily.

My Altec's are 99 db sensitivity and my 1983 Audio Research SP8 preamp doesn't make any noise and I do use the phono stage on it. I doubt that Ref 2 is going to be an issue. ARC uses top notch parts in it's gear.
BillWojo

If the price is right, go for it! And now, behind Door Number 3 ...

Thank you for the replies/advise. Yes, Chuck, price is the deciding factor although both brands are on my wish list just not usually accessible in my income bracket. They are both in perfect working order so I think I will indeed pull the trigger. I guess my next step will be to find the right interconnects for my taste. Cheers

Rob

I would think your choice of tubes will make more of a difference than interconnects, as long as you are choosing quality cables.