AR VT80SE compated to Ref 75SE amp discussion

For decades Audio Research Amps only offered balanced inputs. The new Reference series now offers single ended, but recommends using balanced.

You can’t go wrong with either. Musical preference. For me, I am completely enthralled with the VT80. I may get one for my library with all this talk.

@cleeds

thanks for the add’l info - for years the arc’s entry level amps were run single ended, and the reference series ran balanced... this may have changed in the case of the more recent lines

i’m happy to be corrected re the balanced differential amplifier topology as it relates to the newish vt80 se -- perhaps after the op speaks to paragon and does his detailed research he can set us all straight once and for all

there is no doubt in recent years, arc designers have gotten 'religion' in terms of making the amps more flexible and user friendly for customers - witness the auto biasing, output tube fusing, rca and xlr availability for all models... nice, glad this day has arrived (and long overdue...)  :)

So, what was the verdict?

I now have a pair of CJ Premiere 12's and also a NAD M23 for summer use

Neither. Buy their latest designs. Most of the tube worries are gone now that they use fuses instead of diodes for protection.