2. amps-preamps
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ARC LS 17 vs LS 25 Mk II

I'm looking for a new preamp and am seriously thinking of going with Audio Research. Given that these two pieces are very close in price, which do you think I should go for, the newer 17 or the upper level 25 MkII which is a bit older? I'm looking for good air, soundstage, transparency and decay.
mikeyc8
davemitchell
253 posts
 
If you want air, transparency and decay, the LS17 will win in those areas. The LS25mkII has more weight and slam though.

I'm an ARC dealer.
markwatkiss
508 posts
 
No contest,it's like comparing a Miata/LS 17 with a Corvette/LS 25.O.K maybe I embellished a tad.
mikeyc8 OP
174 posts
 
Thanks Mark and Dave. So am I correct in saying that the LS17 sounds more refined, whereas the LS25 mkII has more low end authority? Damn, I wanted both :)
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