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ARC LS26 vs Ref 2 Mk 2

Hi all,

I am considering buying a tube preamp to replace my Krell KRC-HR. I tried out my friend's ARC LS5, and while impressed by it's dimensionality and inner detail, I found it to be a bit hazy compared to the Krell's inky black background.

I am considering either a brand new ARC LS26 or a used ARC Ref 2 Mk 2 for the same price. Home audition of the Ref 2 is not possible.

Could anyone with experience of both please share their opinions? Musicality is my number one priority.

Thanks in advance
Mick
128x128mickey_sg
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,611 posts
 
The Audio Research website states that the LS-26 out-performs the Ref2 Mk2.

I had the Ref2 Mk2 for a couple of years and it was outstanding....you can't go wrong with it. I'm sure if you chose the LS26, you'd love it too. Both units are a win win situation for you.

I now own the Ref3.
pinkus
144 posts
 
Oneobgyn,

who are you kidding when you say your journey is over. I certainly hope you don't believe it !
chadnliz's avatar
chadnliz
3,737 posts
 
My dad is waiting on his Ref 3 to be delivered, when talking to a friend he assumed my dad had the 26, but he owns the 16 now.
What was interesting is he claimed there are a few opinions that the 26 and Ref2 are pretty similar, he used the phrase "kissing cousins" at any rate that is one take I heard on the two.
I cant wait to visit my father to hear the leap that pre will provide in his system performace, it should be fun!
mclsound
159 posts
 
hi Mick,just bought a ref. 2 mk2....just installed Russian NOS tubes,and it is warming up as i speak...it's balanced to a Bryston 14bsst,Raysonic CD128,and PMC IB1's,
the eagles are on a Anthem D1 for a comparison.
i will let u know what i think.
John
mickey_sg's avatar
mickey_sg OP
21 posts
 
Hi Mclsound,

Thanks to you, and to everyone who replied, for your input.
I ended up buying the LS26 about six weeks ago, and it is just fantastic. Absolutely a whole new level up from my old pre, the KRC-HR, in every possible way.

Given how how much better the ARC seems to be than the Krell, I'm very tempted now to explore the possibility of replacing my Krell power amp (FPB300) with a tube power amp. An obvious contender would be the ARC Ref110, but I might go with an older used ARC like the VT150, as that would save me some hard earned cash.

Cheers
Mick
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