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Audio Research REF-110 vs. HD-220

I have a REF-3 and an ARC CD-7 and I'm planning on upgrading my ARC Classic 60 for either the REF-110 or the HD-220. I have efficient, full range speakers (92db Legacy Sig IIIs). My question is: have any posters here had the opportunity to have both amps in their systems long enough to be able to say what the differences are? I listen mostly to jazz, female vocals, light classical, classical guitars and some large orchestral music. Tonal accuracy is very important to me, as is the emotional impact of the music. I'm much more the music lover than the audiophile. Thanks ...
128x128oregonpapa
tlg
69 posts
 
I have the REF 110 and love it. I was wondering if it is ok to put a towel or cover over the ARC gear to keep the dust out when they are not being used? Does anyone else out there do this?
mtdking
157 posts
 
Yes you can put a cover over them when the front power switch id turned off.
oregonpapa's avatar
oregonpapa OP
4,867 posts
 
Thanks for the responses ... much appreciated.
mcrheist
130 posts
 
Oregonpapa,

I encourage you to conduct your own auditions. I am fortunate to have a dealer who has all available for audition, and I was impressed with the full range of Audio Research products including the Ref line, the HD 220, the VS-115. In my opinion, the ref products do not outshine the HD 220 and the VS-115 in a "night and day comparison". It just depends on how much you wish to spend for an incremental improvement in sound.

Having said this, I auditioned all, had the money to purchase all, and was pleased to purchase the VS-115. It provided the best sonics for my system, even at a cost savings. Money should not always be the reason to drive the train in a certain direction.

Best of luck
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