Audio Research glare

Hi Jma@mailhost. I had a similar problem with the VT60Se. Don't know whether new tubes will make any difference, didn't stick with it long enough to collect a drawer full of them tubes! Go audition some very fine SS class A (op. mode) amps available either new or resale, i'm sure you will find one which will work well with the rest of your system. The good aspects of class A type SS amps are worth to seriously consider. Of course there are also esoteric class A tube amps which are in a different league(price) altogether. Nice hunt, Phil.

Yes, my Classic-60 was hard on the ears. My VT-100 doesn't share this problem, however. Make sure to use the finest EVERYTHING with this breed. Also, try to avoid ARC preamps (unless gain trim provided) as these suckers really pump out even at low (9-10 o'clock) settings. This won't be a problem if you have a HUGE room. Happy listening...

You probably have a hybrid ARC. There is none of the glare you are referring to in the all tube designs prior to the D125 Classic series hybrid.