One positive aspect of ARC upgrades, at least for those in the mood to buy, is the way the bottom dropped out of the market on VT100 MkII's. This is an *insane* value purchased used. Contrary to a previous post, a dealer in my area told me that there was no warning regarding the release of the MkIII -- and this guy is a long time ARC dealer.
Audio Research comparison
I'd still like to get an un-biased comparison of the old Audio Research Power Amps: VT100 MkII, VT200, REF300 and the newer solid state input versions. I have heard opinions, but they have all been self serving. So I'd like to hear from someone who has really compared the two designs. Also I'm interested in the comparison of the new pre-amp designs with the older ones LS-25 Ref2 with the MkIIs.