2. amps-preamps
  3. 1287917820

Has anyone Upgraded their ARC preamp

I'm currently running an ARC Ls-25 and I'm thinking about upgrading to a Ref-3. The only problem is I have never heard one. I have heard the MKII version of my pre-amp and I didn't like it. I also heard the LS-26 was very mechanical and not musical. Is the Ref-3 a very musical pre-amp. I don't want to sell my pre-amp and then be disappointed.
taters
cmalak
681 posts
 
Taters...I used to own the LS-26 and upgraded to a Ref 3. I did not think the LS-26 was mechanical. In fact I thought it was very musical. And the Ref 3 has the same sonic signature as the LS-26 but just gave you more of everything the LS-26 delivered: neutral tonal balance, natural timbres, wider dynamic envelope, more controlled bass, and 3D dimensionality and bloom. In both cases, the LS-26 and the Ref 3 were mated to ARC's Ref 110 power amp and CD 7 (so an all ARC chain). What did you have your LS-26 mated to in terms of amps (there could have been a mis-match there)? If that is not the case and you just did not like the LS-26 than I would not get the Ref 3. The LS-26 is a mini-Ref 3.I hope this helps.
cmalak
681 posts
 
One more thing. The LS-25 MkII is I think when ARC switched over to the 6H30 tubes in its preamps from 6922s. Does your LS-25 MK I pre have 6922 tubes in it? It could be that you just don't like the 6H30s vs 6922s. Just guessing here. Many folks who hear BAT and ARC pres based on the 6H30 tube think they are lean and almost SS sounding. I do not think that is the case but it could be you are in that camp.
rrog
1,958 posts
 
Did you hear the MKII version of your preamp and the LS-26 in your system? Were they broken-in and fully warmed up? It has been my experience Audio Research hybrid preamps require 3 days warm up to sound their best.

I have never heard an Audio Research preamp sound mechanical unless it was not warmed up or not broken in. I have always been amazed at how many folks have come to the conclusion they do not like a product without sufficient break-in and warm up. Maybe the third owner actually gets the fully broken-in component and full enjoyment at a discounted price.

Ever since Audio Research developed the hybrid preamp the tubes were given a long, 10,000 hour, tube life whether it was a 6DJ8H, 6922 or the current 6H30. You can leave these preamps powered up 24/7 and only replace the tubes once a year, 24 hrs. x 365 days = 8760 hrs. This is a small price to pay for the improvement in sound.
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