Audio Research pre-amps?


Hello,

I have an Audio Research LS-3 pre-amp paired with McIntosh MC60 mono-blocks. I use an NAD 546BEE CD player and have Nola Boxer speakers on Skylan stands filled with floor dry. The cables are Kimber Heros and 4PRs...and I just added a REL T7 subwoofer.

Anyhoo...my latest thinking is that the system is a just a touch too bright...not much-just a little.

So my question is: I'd like to stick with an ARC pre-amp. Is there a model I should look for that might be a touch warmer? Maybe a tube version? Nothing too new and under $2000..$2500?

Thanks much,
Aaron
neo-luddite

Showing 2 responses by jmcgrogan2

I've owned several ARC preamps, tube and hybrid designs, though I've never owned a SS ARC. I found all of them a touch too bright for my tastes. I would recommend looking for a VAC preamp in your price range. I found VAC to be almost as revealing as ARC preamps, but with just a hint of sweetness. As always, YMMV.
Well if you are sticking with ARC, then maybe some warmer cables could help. Try some Cardas, Acoustic Zen, or Purist Audio in place of the Kimber. Or maybe a tube buffer stage between the NAD CDP and the ARC preamp. Just a thought.