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Which ARC Linestage?

I am considering selling my SP16 and going with preamp separates to run with my 150.2. Unfortunately, a LS26 is out of reach and I'm not sure the LS17 is going to get me where I want to go. Are there any standout linestages from ARC's back product catalogue I should consider? Which of those from the LS-5 forward (if any) can really stand up to the best of what is currently out there--or at least would be better than the LS-17 or my SP16? I would run the phono with either a GNSC modified PH5 or PH3. Am I moving in the right direction? Should I even consider a SP17?

Thanks!
dodgealum
scousepasty
106 posts
 
It may seem little like madness - as I now own a Ref 3 but I think the LS2B was a great sounding line stage. Not many features but a had great soundstage and control [grip] on the music where the late LS's get a bit loose IMO in exchange for a softening of the brightness of the LS2.
tweak1
3,570 posts
 
I did not like the 2B at all. Dump the pre all together. Get a Raysinic 168 CD player and use the variable tube outs. IT'S THAT GOOD!
elevick
2,636 posts
 
I've got a SP-6B with unbelievable phono stage. This will keep up with anything new.
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,603 posts
 
The LS-10 is a killer linestage. It is the best solid state pre AR ever made, hands down. Sold for $5k new, can be had for about $2k today, but they only resurface a couple of times a year here on the 'Gon. Pitch black background that is downright spooky. I've owned it on three separate occasions. I kept going back to it....only the Ref3 kept me from buying it again. You don't hear much about it here on the 'Gon, but it is a real winner.
dodgealum OP
1,400 posts
 
Anyone have the chance to compare the LS25 with the LS25MkII? It seems the MkII is using the same (2) 6H30 set up as the LS26, which would appear to be a step forward. How might either of these units compare with the new LS17?
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