Audio Research, next upgrade?


I have been upgrading recently and have had great fun and results. I really like the Audio Research line and I am slowly working my way to the Reference products. I would like to hear what everyone would suggest as the next piece to upgrade, ie CD, Pre, or Amp first. My current system is:
ARC CD3 MKII
ARC LS 26
ARC VT100 MKII
B&W 801
The system sounds great as -is, but always looking for the next improvement.
Thank you
vdosc

Showing 1 response by tinear1

I had an LS 26, and compared to what it replaced (a bottom of the line VTL tube pre), the low bass was anemic. You have good bass in your speakers and amp, so if you like low end extension and weight, replace the preamp. I went SS to match my amp, and the difference was immediate. I miss the sweetness of tubes, though, so want to find a tube preamp that can go low. LS 27, 5 SE, or?