ARC Ref 3 - thoughts?

the 5se offered better leading edge, bass articulation and depth. 
if you dont want to spend the $, buy upgraded fuse & power cord. and footers. ---there's lots of improvement just there (and portable to the 5se at a later date)

I would add an HRS base before moving to a REF5se
but that is indeed a lovely preamp, my current reference...The Tung Sol in the regulation side makes a massive difference.

have fun, enjoy the music!!!!!

Hi Tim,

I have done the Ref 3 upgrade circuit.  Namely, the Ref 5, Ref 5 SE and now the Ref 6. IMO, there was an incremental and noticeable improvement from the Ref 3 to the Ref 5SE and then again to the Ref 6.  

I recall seeing a few Ref 3s listed on A'gon for the high $3ks to maybe $4K range.  The list prices for the Ref 5SE are all over the place, but assume something in the high $5Ks or low $6Ks.  So, moving up to the Ref 5SE could cost some change.  

That said, I recall that my Ref 3 was a real sweet sounding pre.  If you are happy with your Ref 3, especially after the retube, why not stay put and just enjoy it?

 BIF

Totally agree. I had the Ref 5 se for about 4 months and my dealer lent me the Ref 6. What a big difference. With everything. Was really truly amazed. It’s definitely a keeper. 

tattooed, thank you and it lends to my theory that, I really don’t think ARC comes out with a new model unless they are confident it is better than it’s predecessor. Case in point, when they came out with the LS27 it was so good they revamped the REF and introduced the SE version as the 27 was too close in performance and wanted the 5 to be the value at it’s price point.