Audio Research I/50 integrated?

I looked at the I/50 very seriously, liked it alot...went with the Manley Labs Stingray II...The local Audio dealer by me had them matched with a pair of Atohm Floor standers.

Positives: Impressive across the Audio Spectrum, soundstage, clarity etc

Negatives: Optically for our room, just didn't make it...the dials didn't feel great (although neither did the Manley...I use the remote for sound)...the tubes with the #'s were a little gimmicky for me and hard to read...

From my chair, if your speakers are high efficient, you will be very pleased...Great company, like I said it was a strong runner up...

Best of luck with your decision...

Bumping this thread. Am curious about this unit and perhaps the Vsi75 as well.  

@poke33 I honestly don’t know how one can diss this one but endorse the Manley when it comes to visual impact. Unless i’m misreading what you mean by "optically".

Hey @mtbiker29 , 

Just an fyi,

There’s a new-in-box VSi 75 posted now in Agon for 6K, full warranty.

Sandstone

Thank you @sandstone that's part of what prompted me to bump this.  I did see one at my dealer later that day and it's a pretty physically large unit so a bit restrictive for the WAF needed.....but the i/50 could work.  OTOH I had a blast with my current setup friday night so i'm back to liking my gear, LOL.  

@mtbiker29 - I wasn't down on the I50  but I liked the Stingray looks far better.... personal preference. I have had the Manley now since July 4th... love it, very happy with my decision.... 

It’s a great looking and presumably great sounding amp, but the i50’s need to be re-biased (professionally) every time a tube set is replaced seems at odds with its intentions as the entry point into the AR tube family.

@yakbob ....Correct.... The Manley is easily biased by the owner... I have done mine several times... The amp comes with a meter and easy instructions to do this. Having to send the amp back to be biased would be a deal breaker

Here is a new review of both.... Never watched this guy before...