Audio Research Sp-6a-Should it be modified?

I had similar questions with my ARC SP-8. In the end I sent it back to ARC to be refurbished, rather than to another specialist to have it modified/changed. My logic was that while an upgraded SP-8 might be an improvement, it simply wasn't going to turn it into a REF 3, SP-17, or LS-25, so in the end it made more sense to me to save up for a really improved model, rather than try to increment my way up. It made sense to me to have aged components replaced with current equivalents (i.e. ARC replaced the old caps with better current caps) but not to make any circuit changes.

Hi MilesD77,

First of all SP6 is a GOOD Pre-amp. If I am not mistaken, The circuit went back and similar to SP3. I suggest that you maintain the original circuit and change the caps & resistor available today.

Good Luck,

it may have a similar circuit as the SP3 (I do not know) but the SP6 is way more neutral and extended - if a bit dry (compared to the carmel colored SP3)...