ARC Tube preamp suggestions


Hi guys,

I have an ARC VT-100 amp that I need to find a preamp for. Alas my budget does not allow for a new Ref5 or LS26/27, so I need to go to the 2nd hand market.

I like the lush, warm tube sound with all the pros and cons. I have a pair of Wilson Cubs with a 12" sub attached.

I am looking at the LS2, LS5, LS8 or maybe LS16 preamps.
Please let me hear your suggestions - there maybe some preamps I have overseen.

My music is contemporary, jazz, blues and rock.

Thanks
Henrik
plafitracer

Showing 1 response by jafox

none of the Audio Research linestages short of the Ref. 3 fit that description.
WRONG! The LS5 is way beyond the other line stages here when it comes to lush and warmth. The LS2 and LS16 are sterile as h*ll. The LS7/LS8 are good performers but were part of ARC's "budget" series. And no, not the SP-11. This was the beginning of ARC to move toward a sterile sound until the LS5 came alone.