ARC LS25 MkII vs. ARC Ref MkII??

Hi,

Has anyone also listened to the less pricey LS16 MKII?
How does it stack up to the LS25 MKII?

Thanks.

I've owned an LS25 MkII and extensively auditioned the Ref 2 MKII. The Ref2 is definitely better. I think it does image somewhat more clearly and retrieves more detail. I thought the bass was about the same, a little loose on both. Whether it is worth the difference in cost is a matter of your priorities and budget.

I also compared the two preamps. The Ref. preamp adds about 10-15% improvement in sound, a little more natural, better bass definition, better detail and sound stage and a little warmer sounding overall. If you could get a great deal on one, the answer to your question is yes, if not, then no. There maybe other preamps from CJ, Hovland or First Sound that may have the same sonic characteristics of the Ref. 1 for a little less, but I have not compared them directly myself.

Hi,

Just curious, does the LS25 MII pre-amp use Hovland capacitors anywhere in its circuits?

Thanks!

I have listened to both,the improvement you get does not
substaniate the cost.You would be better of putting your
money in upgraded cables and Interconnects!