The LS-2 cannot be considered a tube preamp as it only has one tube. It is considered more of a hybrid. It does however sound very good particularly the mkII version. The LS-15 is also a good performer and can be made better with a good quad of Nos tubes. But the LS-22 will give you more of a tube sound as it has eight tubes and is the best of the three. Sometimes they can be found here on the Gon for around $1500-$1700 but not very often.
Audio Research LS series......
I am thinking about adding a tube preamp to my system. I use a highly modified Accuphase C200 right now and I am happy with it. I would like to have a tube preamp that I can mod...so the top price would be about $1500 used. I was thinking about changing the coupling caps with some V-caps(or other). My goal is to have a very natural,transparent sound,and a very good soundstage...the pre would be warmer but not tubey..to compliment my SS C200 preamp. I have read reveiws on the LS2,LS15,& the LS17...any thoughts. I use RCA connections and need 2 sets of outputs. My equipment is...
VAC 140's
NBS cables
custom dynaudio speakers
Thanks for any input...
P.S. I know there are many tube pre's that I could use...but I think that for the money I want to spend the ARC would be a good choice.
VAC 140's
NBS cables
custom dynaudio speakers
Thanks for any input...
P.S. I know there are many tube pre's that I could use...but I think that for the money I want to spend the ARC would be a good choice.