What a better pre-amp Arc Ls-27 or Ref-3

I recently picked up a Ls-27 but I'm wondering if the Ref-3 would of been a better choice. If you have heard both I would like your opinion.

taters12-30-2011 8:06am

Post removed Aug 12, 2015
pubul57 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 3,712 posts 12-30-2011 at 03:15pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete That seems to be the emerging consensus, but in either case you would own a very fine preamp; no weak link with either of these two.
theo Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 2,681 posts 12-30-2011 at 05:00pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete From everything I have read or heard, the LS27 is the better choice. There have been a few threads here on AG that you may want to have a look at in addition to the responses you will get here. I have an LS26 and am waiting for the fund$ so I can take the step up to the 27. Although I may have to wait for the 28!
tinear1 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 49 posts 07-27-2012 at 12:11am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete What do you feel you are you missing that you are looking to the Ref 3 to improve? Obviously you aren't getting everything you wanted from the LS27 or you wouldn't be asking.
tmsorosk Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,013 posts 07-27-2012 at 01:15pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I went from the LS27 to the Ref3, and found the Ref3 had a cleaner, clearer sound, less tube like. Both were excellent but the Ref3 was a step up, and the Tung-sol 6550 NOS tube made it even better.