Audio Research Ref 110

Preamp? Source? Cables? Speaker?

While I appreciate that everything is system dependent, my question is, for those of you who have broken in the REF series amps, is this characteristic inherent in the break in process?

As far as I know, an amp does not make sounds without a little help. A power cord can make an amp sound quite different. If you had enough love of music to purchase an ARC Ref 110 amp, you should understand that generalizations are worthless. How the amp reacts to it's connected components and cabling is as varied as human hearing acuity is variable.

My Ref110 sounded a little thin and un-engaging during the break-in period, and it was only after the 300-400 hour mark that it blossomed. I remember feeling a little worried then, but I look back at that time and laugh. It is now staggeringly transparent and natural, and so totally superior to anything I ever owned before.

OTOH, the Ref110 is not one of those tubey tube amps with ultra-lush mids, so if thats your thing, then choose partnering equipment accordingly.

Hope this helps
Mick

And, the Ref 110 replaced what? Are the cables the same, have you tried anything different? Does it sit on the same rack or stand? Have you tried different equipment supports/isolators?

I have two VAC amps that I swap back and forth and for each to sound its best requires subtle system changes. One of the bass traps needs to be moved 1 inch back, speaker cables slightly damped (via sandbags), DAC feet change from brass spikes to Still points. You most likely need to make some minor changes. You cannot simply exchange one amp for another and expect it to perform its best. I don't believe in long break-ins (over 100hrs). So, if it sounds bad, it probably really is bad, so give it some help.