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ARC Ref 5se better than ML #28?

I have a Mark Levinson #28 preamp which I have been using for some time and have been happy with. Recently I was offered an Audio Research Ref 5SE in good condition. Would this upgrade be a substantial improvement? I am using an ARC ref 75SE power amp.
Would be grateful for guidance.
Javed
javeds
3 responses Add your response
audioconnection
1,271 posts
 
Yes,I think so.From a sophisticated standpoint, the ARC is a bit more human and natural with the support that is top shelf.
 Of course, you may be sentimentally attached. Perhaps you need some courage
 But you will have to be the horse that drinks the water. What do you have to lose?
javeds OP
2 posts
 
Thank you for your response although, I must admit, I don't really understand the second half of your message.
Thanks anyway
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 

"You can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink."

More or less...

if you are emotionally attached to the ML and are kind of reluctant to make the change, you probably won't, and even if you do, you may be subconsciously biased against the ARC and end up not liking it too much.

If you are willing to try the ARC, you may well find you prefer it to the ML.

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