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Audio Research Corp Ref 5 SE

Just picked up news on another OP that ARC is upgrading the Ref 5 to an SE version that incorporates some of the technology from the Ref 40. The other OP posted the URL link below. Does anyone have any solid information anout this news development? Has anyone heard the Ref 5 SE? Same rumor about an SE version of the Ref Phono 2?

http://artsexcellence-audioresearch.blogspot.com/2011/12/audio-research-reference-5-se.html
bifwynne
sfstereo
215 posts
 
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.
markwatkiss
508 posts
 
Think I'll wait until the REF 6.
dgad
782 posts
 
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.
bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
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.
tylercoupe
15 posts
 
Cool

I have the VS115 and love it. It was paired w/ Ref2 mk2 and Wilson Duettes..

Your system is resolving enough to benefit from SE upgrade.

I will say that upgrading to Ref150 amp would be bigger improvement but likely more $$$ even netting sale of 115. I am matching the Ref5SE with the 150 in my cabin...Here are some pics of the system wher I put the ref phono SE and ref 250s. Also compares my 2 TTs...go to my gallery and look at media room. Started with ref 150 in there but switched to 250s

http://gallery.me.com/npdomino/100048

Remember you do already have a great system...may make sense to take upgrade money and put into more vinyl. I am using 2012 to rebalance my software spend
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