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Audio Research LS 26 or Cary SLP 05?

I am trying to expand my horizon for tube preamps. I am now deciding whether to go for an Audio Research LS 26, Cary SLP 05, or deHavilland Mercury?... I have no way to hear these preamps together.

I'll be using an Odyssey Stratos Dual Mono SS amp, Cambridge Audio 640v2 CDP, and the speakers are DIY Scanspeak 2.5 way (21W555/18W8545/9800).

Which preamp will produce the following characteristics?...
-Transparent and neutral tonality and timbre for acoustical instruments
-bass: powerful and deep
-mids: harmonically rich, clear, smooth, refined
-highs: extended & airy. WITHOUT glare. NOT rolled off.
-3D, spacious sound stage WITHOUT sacrificing focus
-big tone, lush sound
-high resolution with micro details without etching

Thanks!
88man
ajackson1
156 posts
 
2nd the Cary SLP-05 with the right tubes.
Auditioned the AR months ago, but went with the Cary.
realhifi
159 posts
 
Whitish? Analytical? Not adjectives I would use in describing the ARC LS26. At all. Gorgeous neutral tonality, solid and palpable focus, clean, clear, smooth...
that is what I hear time and again from this preamplifier.
I have not heard the particular Cary unit you mentioned so I can't make a comparison but can only say that if you have other good equipment then the ARC will only let it all shine.
stickman451
553 posts
 
Or, do better and go for the Hovland HP-100 that is for sale on this BB..... One of the very best Pre's out there.
homosapien's avatar
homosapien
70 posts
 
100% agree with Baggs1.
Both preamps are great and have distinctive "house" sound - you do not have to auditioned them A to B - they sound so differently. It is a matter of taste and the rest of the system. I got SLP-05 and very happy with it
cmalak
681 posts
 
I agree with Martykl. Based on the criteria you listed, the ARC LS26 virtually meets every one, except for "lush" sound. I would describe the ARC sound in general as being quite neutral. I used to own the LS26 and loved it and upgraded to the Ref3 (I wish I had waited for all the used Ref 3s now flooding Agon :-)). Anyway, based on your criteria I would go with the LS26. Ideally you will be able to audition before you make your decision. Good luck with whichever choice you make.
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