Audio Research PH 7 or PH 6

Pkelly ... I used to own the ARC PH-7. Thinking I'd be stepping up to a "baby Ref Phono 2 (not SE)," I bought a "refurbed-demo" PH-8 directly from ARC.

Frankly, I couldn't tell the difference between the PH-7 and the PH-8. When I called ARC to understand why the PH-8 wasn't in a "different league" than the PH-7, the former being a "baby Ref Phono 2," ARC explained in "audiophile-babble" just how improved the PH-8 was over the PH-7. Ok ... I'm a believer if ARC says so, but just between you and me, I ain't drinking the Kool-Aid.

So look, I've never listened to the PH-6, so take this with a grain of salt. IMHO, if you can pick up a pre-owned PH-7 in mint condition for $3500 or even less, I don't think you would be making a bad deal.

Btw, the PH-7 uses 6922 tubes, which are really inexpensive. So, retubing won't be a big hassle.

Just my opinion. BIF

Caveat: I read or heard somewhere a while ago that the PH-8 sonically nipped at the heels of the Ref Phono 2 (not SE). Not ever having heard the Ref Phono 2, I can't personally vouch for that view.

If I had to make a choice I would prefer the PH 7 , it has a better powersupply and the 4 output capacitors are better quality ,but be sure the PH 7 has the powersupply update.
Let us know your choise and why
regards from the Netherlands

The Ref Phono 2 is a genuine advance over the PH7 - here's a review that compares them. And the SE version goes further still.

Be that as it may, the PH-7 is a great phono stage - I'd choose it over the PH-6. And fwiw, NOS 6DJ8-family tubes can make a real nice upgrade vs. stock in the PH-7.