Audio Research vs Sonic Frontiers

I have heard both and could not stand the Sonic Frontiers. It sounded horrible when matched up with a tube amp. On the other extreme, the ARC was fantastic in comparison. The SF had a very closed in soundstage while the ARC was large and deep. In my mind there is no comparison, go with the ARC.

I also listened to both units before buying a Sonic Frontiers Line 1 (one chassis unit). There was an audible differance. The Audio Research excelled in some areas, while the Sonic Frontiers excelled in others. The deciding factor was value. The feature-rich Line 1 offers much more value for the money than the LS 25. Good luck!

Don't go by what people tell you! Go listen for yourself.. Everyone has different opinions and likings. I recent bought the SF Power 3, and some people or reviewers don't like them at all. But, I love them. I have heard the ARC and VTL. Yes, they are richer in midrange, but the SF excel in all of the other areas. Accuracy, speed and the dynamics. Go by you own years. I am using the Convergent Audio Tech. Ultimate preamp, it's excellent.. If you are in the price range, why don't you check these out.. They are expensive, but I feel they sound better than the REF2 ARC . Good luck.

Don't go by what people tell you! Go listen for yourself.. Everyone has different opinions and likings. I recent bought the SF Power 3, and some people or reviewers don't like them at all. But, I love them. I have heard the ARC and VTL. Yes, they are richer in midrange, but the SF excel in all of the other areas. Accuracy, speed and the dynamics. Go by you own years. I am using the Convergent Audio Tech. Ultimate preamp, it's excellent.. If you are in the price range, why don't you check these out.. They are expensive, but I feel they sound better than the REF2 ARC . Good luck.

I've owned both ARC (SP-15) and Sonic Frontiers (Anthem Pre-1) preamps, and the CAT SL-1 III (with phono) that I'm selling on Audiogon is worlds better than either. Not to make an ad out of this comment, I agree that you should go by your own ears, if you're determined to get either ARC or Sonic Frontiers. But there are a lot of much better preamps available on the used market, like mine with its customized signal path. Good luck with your choice.