2. amps-preamps
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For ARC lovers, Problems?

I had a ref 6 which I liked a lot and had no problems with. I upgraded to the ref 10 which sounded appreciably better but I ended up with a number of problems that I could no longer tolerate. I have a new pre which is very good but is not nearly as exciting as the audio research sound.
From your experience with Audio Research is this a good idea going back to the ref 6 with the hope of upgrading it to the SE? Or will I regret it due to reliability issues? There are pages on Audiogon concerning ARC reliability issues and I don't want to jump feet first into another expensive audio quicksand.
Any opinions or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.

roxy1927
roxy1927 OP
143 posts
 
Tubes would continually blow. I had an authorized dealer fix it and the factory as well. I finally had to give up. I must say it was a glorious sounding piece of equipment. I miss it but I only had it half the time. 
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cleeds
6,275 posts
 
I haven't had reliability issues with ARC equipment even after many decades of ownership. It sounds like you purchased your ARC gear used, so perhaps that's part of the problem.
jperry
2,485 posts
 
For a great sounding and reliable tube preamp try listening to Nagra Classic or Luxman (CL-38 or CL-1000)

https://www.nagraaudio.com/product/classic-preamp/

I used to own Audio Research and now own Luxman
lostbears's avatar
lostbears
538 posts
 

I have owned ARC gear for over 30 years and have not had any reliability issues. Some years ago I had a 6550 go that took out a resistor, but that is about it. I have had absolutely no problems with my Ref 5se going through tubes. My Ref 2se either. The Ref 10 was probably just a fluke. Maybe a poor batch of tubes or something. Was the Ref 10 sent in for service to the ARC factory? They are usually very thorough.

 I have had other gear in my system from time to time but always went back to ARC. There is just nothing that compares to the sound of their preamps.  I would go for the Ref 6se if you can. Long term I doubt you will be satisfied with something else.

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