Audio Research Corp Ref 5 SE

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Thanks Bif, I've been waiting for your review.
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I just replaced my Ref3 with a 5SE. There are clearly discernable improvements in background quiet, detail, and soundstage definition. A "whole new ballgame", no, not really. Am I satisfied? Yes I will be able to live with this unit for many years without the need to upgrade. By the way the wait list for my Ref Phono 2 SE upgrade is now 6 mos and cost is $3K.

Thanks Djcxxx. Your comments kinda' substantiate my general reactions that at some point, there are diminishing returns.

I used to own the Ref 3 too. I had the same reactions as did you about the change from the Ref 3 to the Ref 5, and then again to the Ref 5 SE. By the way, for the benefit of those folks who own a Ref 3, let me assure you, IMO, it's still one heck of a great linestage. Sorta' makes me chuckle when I read that going from component A to component B will be a "day and night difference."

As I mentioned elsewhere, I may be going down upgrade alley again, but this time with speakers. Paradigm S8s to Vandy Quattro Woods, maybe?? Reason: I have agita that the S8s may not be a good electrical match for my ARC tube amp.

The dealer will drive the Vandies with the same ARC tube amp that I own. Now that will be an interesting audition.

Well, I have to tell you, at 300 hours, it is NOT broken in. You will still undergo noticeable improvements. I also owned a Ref3, and then Ref5, and now the 5se. It is after the 500-600 hour mark that the benefits are most apparent. Yes, prior to that, it is marginally better than its predecessors. But after about 600 hrs, it is noticeably better, imo. You really can't make these judgements yet as to where it will end up.

Thanks for that info Dbarger. I will absolutely keep an open mind and look forward to even better listening. Btw, ARC told me that upgraded Ref 5s should take only 300 hours to break in. I think real-time experiences like yours are helpful to know.