2. amps-preamps
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Audio Research pre-amps?

Hello,

I have an Audio Research LS-3 pre-amp paired with McIntosh MC60 mono-blocks. I use an NAD 546BEE CD player and have Nola Boxer speakers on Skylan stands filled with floor dry. The cables are Kimber Heros and 4PRs...and I just added a REL T7 subwoofer.

Anyhoo...my latest thinking is that the system is a just a touch too bright...not much-just a little.

So my question is: I'd like to stick with an ARC pre-amp. Is there a model I should look for that might be a touch warmer? Maybe a tube version? Nothing too new and under $2000..$2500?

Thanks much,
Aaron
neo-luddite
77jovian
421 posts
 
I had an LS-3 for years, before upgrading to the LS-26. Same basic ARC sound signature but sweeter, more liquid in the mids and on top. Also more 3-D. I don't find ARC lacking in bass, either.
no_money
638 posts
 
Why not look for a used ref1?
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,838 posts
 
Try replacing the Kimbers with 12 gauge house wiring cable. Strip out the black and white wires and gently twist them. Cheap experiment.
bjesien
1,311 posts
 
ARC sucks. Sad you have to hear this but it sounds like you understand. I've tried them as I've worked for an ARC dealer. They're smooth but tinny. Right?
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
If you haven't already done so, my suggestion is that before replacing anything you try the 4 ohm taps on the amplifiers, even though the speakers are nominally rated at 8 ohms.

I couldn't find an impedance vs. frequency curve for the Boxer, but small two-ways often have a significantly lower impedance at low frequencies than at high frequencies. If that is the case with the Boxer, using the 4 ohm taps of your MC60's will result in a less bright sound than using the 8 ohm taps.

Regards,
-- Al
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