Audio Research or Rogue

LS16 is good, but there's no phono section.
However, ARC PH5 is a highly regarded phono preamp, so you can add it to LS-16. ARC equipment is reliable. I have my ARC LS-15 preamp since 1999 and am very happy with it.

I heard mixed things about Rogue, but never listened to one myself, so I can't comment on that.

If you need a pre with built-in phono section, it's ARC LS-25.

"I heard mixed things about Rogue, but never listened to one myself, so I can't comment on that."

Well, Audphile1, you really did comment on that. ;) I think your idea of adding a phono stage is a very good one.

Lrozatti,

I've not heard the ARC gear and I have only had a Rogue 99 Magnum just a few days. The rouge does have some characteristics that are better than a popular, and much higher priced, component pre and phono stage I've had for a while. It does seem to respond well to the right tubes and you can choose from 3 different tube types in the phono stage. Best thing you could do is try to get both the ARC and Rogue in your system for a demo and A/B them.

I can't find anything to suggest that Dared makes a phono stage so you may half to look somewhere else. I'd suggest looking for a simple circuit design. Don't know your budget but I'll throght out K&K, EAR, Hagerman along with the PH5 mentioned.

Best of luck,

Dan

Lrozatti,

In my search for a preamp with a phono section I auditioned at great length both the SP16 and 99 Magnum in my home system. While I didn't buy either (bought Cary SLP98p) my preference of the two was the ARC. The Rogue had a little more warmth and a few more features, but overall I liked the detail and soundstage of the SP16.

Jim

Replacing the AR9s may be the the best bang for your buck. Even though they are great speakers, speaker designs of today are much more open and will give you more of what tubes have to offer. Also, if you like the Dared and if it has an unsed input why not consider a seperate phono stage. The ARC PH5 mentioned above is an excellent choice. If at all possible though try to audition some Triangle or Talons speakers which sound very good with tubes. Finally, I use a TAD-150 signature for a tubed pre and was my choice over the Rogue which I also considered and I have been very pleased. It has a good phono stage and all the other dimensions of a good sounding tubed pre. The ARC phono stage however is in a different league. You have much to consider. Good luck.