Audio Research Refernce 75se

My friend own a ARC ref 75se for many years and doesn't experience any hum/buzzing noise from its transformer.

Transformer hum/buzzing could be due to DC offset in AC mains, or the transformer loosen itself from the chassis, both can be easily fixed. But if the transformer hum/buzzing due to the transformer core adhesive starts to break apart and the laminated layers separate from each other slightly, the vibration of these layers is the cause of the humming noise, once the adhesive starts to break, the noise will gets louder over time and need to be replaced with a new transformer eventually.

my suggestion is bring it home for audition, if it still buzzing return it to the seller.

+1 hififan! Loose laminations will cause buzzing. Can't be fixed! Loose mounting screws are any easy fix! The OP should take the cover off and check for this. Otherwise pass because ARC will want way too much for a new transformer.

I would bet money it isnt either loose screws or delam, I would bet its power related. Is it that system, that plug, that home, that transformer on the pole, that region of your town? Its worth having it checked out but the deal you describe in the other thread isnt so amazing that you should take a flyer on this amp. What preamp will you be utilizing if you buy the ref75se?

Good news i would be taking it to a mechanic to check it out.

imlooking towards the ARC ls27 atm . what do u think for this combo? @ghasley 

@mike30 the LS27 is a fine preamp. The se versions are exceptional as well. The ref series, end game. If you have to make a financial compromise, buy the best preamp you can afford. It will make every amp better…but the inverse isnt always true. Hanging an amazing amp off of an average preamp doesnt necessarily yield the superior results…

good luck. The 75se can be end game, it is already a classic and it is a really nice amp across a broad spectrum of speakers.