Audio Research Pre-Amp advice

@jrwaudio 

I also have a LS15 bought in '96 with updated Infini caps (work done by Ward Fiebiger may he RIP). Changed the original Sovtek tubes after about 12 years! Put in Gold Lions, wow what a difference.  It has been relegated to the garage stereo as I have a REF6 now.

Regards,

barts

Thanks for all the responses so far but which are the best sounding built in the last 10 years excluding Ref. I want something easier to maintain, so in the future if it ever needs service. Ref's would cost more to service. Someone sold a 27 on Audio Mart maybe that one would one good to consider?

Given your criteria, you should consider the latest non REF ARC line stage at $6k or less. I recommend setting up some alerts using hifi shark and be ready to act quickly when you get a hit.

@romad - I would not be too concerned about servicing for an older ARC preamp. ARC is famous for servicing older, even vintage gear. Additionally there are shops out there who service older tubed gear as well. 

Happy listening. 

@pinwa ah…. No I said ‘no trouble “… I am on tube set #3 ish as I change the 6550 in the power supply at the 2 k mark. I and a few others love what a vintage Tung Sol Black Plate from NJ does there…

‘I guess to clarify for the OP, I don’t view routine and even the occasional bad tube as trouble.  The op should imo contact Randy at Optimal Enchantment in SantaMonica… he sells a bunch of ARC and will likely have a line on a 28, etc….
 

As to the tube counter, I’ve owned my unit since new and it is easy to keep a running log in the manual.