2. amps-preamps
  3. 1215545726

ARC LS26 power cords, interconnects, tweaks

I just purchased an Audio Research LS26 preamplifier. This is my first tube component and now my system could go fully balanced if I invested in xlr cables. I am very happy with the overall sound of the LS26. The separation of details and fuller sound in the midrange is an incredible improvement in many ways. Tones sound so natural and true through this preamp. That said, I do not feel I am getting the full level of performance it is capable of. My former pre was a solid state edge g1. There was a sparkle in the treble that is not there with the ARC and while the midrange is certainly fuller it sounds very slightly veiled especially on voices. I am sure this is just a tweaking issue as it really does sound incredible. I would love to hear from other owners who have experimented and what you've learned.

I currently own all Tara Labs RSC interconnects terminated with RCA. My system is:

amp: spectron musician 3se mk2 (isoclean superfocus power cord)
preamp: arc ls26 (shunyata taipan power cord)
cdp: resolution audio opus 21 (shunyata taipan power cord)
loudspeaker: audio physic scorpio: spectron remote sense speaker cable / purist audio new elementa advanced

Thanks
J
j_evege

Showing 1 response by lwerner

lwerner
58 posts
 
You have not as yet "heard" your LS26, as suggested above it needs time to break in. I have about 350hrs on my LS26 and I still hear changes (for the good).
I don`t normaly like "adaptors" because that introduces another connection plus one that is not soldered.
I also use a new ARC PH7 phono which has only RCA out.

Just to see what happens if I took the "balanced" path, I ordered 2pr. of Cardas RCA to XLR adaptors,($75 a pair) balanced going into and balanced comming out of the LS26.
The difference was VERY significant, like a veil lifted, dynamics and high transparency, sense of space and depth was MUCH better, I am not going back to the RCA only path.
Some reading this will say I am imagining the improvements, but I think the signal just going through the balanced mode is improved and past on down the line so to speak. The LS26 is the only unit in my system that can go Balanced, you may find that the adaptors are all you will need.
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