Audio Research LS7 - Still a good performer?


Hello all!

Currently in the process of moving to separates and wanting to get tubes into my system in the process.  Working on a deal on a ARC LS7 line-stage and wondering if anyone out there has any thoughts on its sound/performance?

The unit looks to be in very good shape for its age ('95-'97), original owner with four "6922" dual-triode tubes (not sure what this means...will have to learn "tube-speak").

Thanks for any thoughts!

Arvin

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I bought LS7 when it came out working weekends at our local ARC dealership for cost along with a VT60. I really liked the amp but the LS7 didn’t blow me away. Later I changed out the stock Rel Caps and went with Infinicaps which where the hot caps at the time, and was using NOS tubes which did help the LS7. I’m sure caps today are far better than those old Infinicaps as well.


I didn’t mess with the PS on the LS7 but I’m sure that helped and I always felt that’s where ARC could have spent a little more money but knew they had a price point to meet. If you haven’t tried some isolation devices under your LS7 that will probably open things up as well… even Cardas myrtle blocks do well and are fairly affordable.
I had one for about 20years, it was dependable never had a problem with it, teamed it with a Rogue Audio amp. IMO unless you’re into vintage and not music the new stuff sounds so much better.