ARC Ref 110 vs. Ref 210


I'm in the process of upgrading my system and need help with an amp decision. Current system includes ARC Ref 3 preamp, CD-7, Rega P5 turntable, and Dali MS-5 speakers. I auditioned the 110 at home, with pleasing results. We're designing a new home, where this system will live in a room that's approx. 20 x 25 ft, with 11 foot ceilings. Musical tastes are primarily jazz and pop/rock.

Given the cost difference and heat issues (I live in Texas), I would of course prefer to buy the 110. Still, I wonder if the 210 might be a better choice.

I would appreciate your expertise, particularly any advice from folks who are familiar with the MS-5's.

chucktone

Showing 1 response by davemitchell

There is another great option which unfortunately doesn't work with your 4 ohm Dali speakers, but might be helpful to others with 8 ohm speaker systems. We have set up two of the REF110's in balanced bridged mode (also sometimes called push-pull). In this configuration your double the slew rate and cut the rise time in half while doubling power. You also retain the character of the REF110 amps.

A side benefit is that if one of your amps ever has a tube failure or is down for any reason, you have a second 110 that can run your whole system.