Audio Research Corp Ref 5 SE

My ref 5se arrived today at dealer...picking it up tomorrow. I have a KX-R fronting Ref 250s and the ref 5 SE will front a ref 150 at my cabin.

I will let you know my thoughts on differences...I listened to the Ayre on the 150 for several months until the 250s arrived

Glai,

I did a bit more comparison between the KXR and the REF 5SE yesterday before returning the KXR to my friend. I think both preamps are excellent but thre are some minor differences and which one is better is a personal preference.

The KXR has lower background noise and instruments are better separated and the high frequency is a bit more extended. The REF 5SE on the other hand, has vocal that is more emotionally involved. I guess that is what tubes are all about. But to my surprise, the highs and low ends are more like solid state than tubes. I was expecting soft bass and rolled off top end.

To my ears, the REF 5SE is the better preamp by a slim margin. I have always been a SS guy and this is my first tube equipment.

I look forward to Tylercoupe's comparison of these two great preamps.

Think I'll wait until the REF 6.

Teflon caps take forever to open up. A review now or any comparison at this early a stage is pointless and honestly misleading. I don't trust anyone reviewing a product within the1st week it is in house. Just moving it around requires time for the equipment to settle in.

FYI: called ARC and put my name on the list for the SE upgrade. Cal said ARC will start working the upgrade list in late January. Cost TBD, but not cheap. The only concern I have is how much I will benefit from the upgrade in light of my source gear and amp. Take a look at my system. I'd appreciate any advice offered.