Seriously? Why Buy ARC Ref 6SE? seems Benchmark LA4 is a better choice.

It is supposed to be a neutral pass thru of a signal.

I don't buy for neutral, I buy for fun.  I have to say the ARC is one of the most neutral bits of tube gear out there, which in my mind has made it a let down.

Lots of less expensive gear sounds as good to my ears in this generation.

Having said that.... Some vintage CJ or Luxman transformer volume controlled pre's can really add a lot of enjoyment and image to the experience. 
Ayre, yeah, I like Ayre pre's a lot more too. :)

Best,
E

If you want to hear a difference between components buy tube gear!

Funny how jealousy expresses itself here.

@emergingsoul I don't buy the ego driven thing as something that applies to most folks. I think people buy what they like or need for their system. If the LA4 cost $20K I would have to do more demoing and likely still got it. However, at $2.5K it was simple buy decision and moved on to the next component I needed. I think it plays in the $20K crowd.

It’s a quandary. And leaning more toward tubes seems to offer more musical fun, especially vocals.  I can’t leave my home to go visit listening rooms due to an injury so I am learning what I can.  Although not sure if this would help.  
Buying an Audi or Mercedes clearly has considerable value. A recent Volkswagen may also be just as good, but it’s a Volkswagen.  A Volvo is a lot safer but doesn’t look as nice. I buy used cars, ie. audis, they perform quite well longer term.