Audio Research Ref 3 Opinions

As the Audio Research web site has not been updated with information on the new Ref 3 linestage, I thought of pasting here the OCRed content of the entire blurb on the device that I have recently received from Audio Research. So, here it goes. . .
If you were interested, the text was generated using the ABBYY Fine Reader V7.0 recognition engine at 400DPI in grayscale. No manual error correction has been applied.

audio research

HIGH DEFINITION®

3900 ANNAPOLIS LANE NORTH / PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447-5447 / PHONE: 763-577-9700 FAX 763-577-0323

Introducing the REFERENCE 3

Introduced more than five and a half years ago, the REF2 has received a continuous stream of accolades from around the world. True to its name, it has become the reference line-stage preamplifier, purchased new by a thousand music lovers and coveted by thousands more. With the MKII version four years old, it is time to push the performance envelope once again. We are proud to introduce the new REFERENCE 3, with a retail price of US$9,995.00.

"Breakthrough" is an overused term, but it is the most fitting word to describe the REF3. As you can probably imagine, it is difficult to write about a new product like this without sounding cliched, but the REF3 is so good that it is startling when you hear it in your system. How is its presentation superior to the great products that have preceded it? Simply, in every way. The REF3 is more musically transparent. It presents a soundstage that makes everything else sound one-dimensional. There is pinpoint focus of voices and instruments. The deep, powerful bass is fast, articulate, and controlled. It posesses a dynamic swing that is breathtaking. And, most importantly, there is a directness and immediacy that connects the listener with the performance. The results are simply thrilling.

Externally the same dimensions as its predecessors, the REF3 is new inside and out. The front panel marries the classic Audio Research look with a modern display and intuitive controls that will be appreciated. In the middle of the panel is a large display which can show the volume level (numerically and via line graph), input, and operating status (including BAL/SE, Mute, Mono, and Phase). Flanking the display are two knobs which control volume and input. Under the display, in place of the toggles, are four soft touch switches controlling Power, Processor input, BAL/SE, and Mute. The new remote controls all front panel functions plus the balance control, and also a display readout of the number of operating hours the vacuum tubes have been in service! It will be easy to integrate the REF3 with system controllers from companies like Crestron or AMX. Inputs are direct access, and there are discreet codes for power on/off, processor on/off, etc.

The rear panel is the same as the REF2 except for the deletion of the tape monitor input. The REF3 does not have the ability to listen to one source while taping another. Also, the IEC connector for the removable power cord has changed from 15A to 20A.

The remarkable level of performance has been achieved with all new audio and power supply circuits. There are four new circuit boards and two new transformers. The new audio circuit is pure tube, Class-A, with zero feedback, utilizing a total of four long-life 6H30 twin triodes. FETs are

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P.2 REFERENCE 3 introduction

used for constant-current sources, and the analog circutry uses a long-tailed pair input stage to provide the same performance in either single-ended or balanced operation. Total gain is 12dB balanced, 6dB single-ended. The hybrid power supply has over 50% greater energy storage than its predecessors, greatly contributing to its tremendous dynamic capability. There are other improvements which can be seen on the bench. Bandwidth has increased from 60kHz to 200kHz; noise has been reduced by 12dB; headroom is much higher, with the maximum input increased to 20 V balanced, and distortion has been lowered by 40%. The advancements of the REF 3 are both audible and measurable. As you would expect, older REF preamps cannot be updated to the REF3.

It will be easy to hear and see how the REF3 extends the boundaries of preamplifier design. With its great build quality, versatility and the ability to musically transform every system, the REF3 also represents great value. Building upon the foundation of its famed predecessors, the REF3 will be a resounding success. Call your Audio Research dealer to schedule a personal audition.

Model Reference 3

Limited Warranty
Audio Research Corporation products are covered by a 3-Year Limited Warranty, or a 90-Day Limited Warranty (vacuum tubes). This Limited Warranty initiates from the date of purchase, and is limited to the original purchaser, or in the case of demonstration equipment, limited to the balance of warranty remaining after original shipment to the retailer or importer.

In the United States, the specific terms, conditions and remedies for fulfillment of this Limited Warranty are listed on the warranty card accompanying the product in its shipping carton, or may be obtained from the authorized retailer or from the Audio Research Customer Service Department. Outside the United States, the authorized importing retailer or distributor has accepted the responsibility for warranty of Audio Research products sold by them. The specific terms and remedies for fulfillment of the Limited Warranty may vary from country to country. Warranty service should normally be obtained from the importing retailer or distributor from whom the product was purchased.

In the unlikely event that technical service beyond the ability of the importer is required, Audio Research will fulfill the terms and conditions of the Limited Warranty. Such product must be returned at the purchaser's expense to the Audio Research factory, along with a photocopy of the dated purchase receipt for the product, a written description of the problem(s) encountered, and any information necessary for return shipment. The cost of return shipment is the responsibility of the purchaser.

Specifications

FREQUENCY RESPONSE: +0 -3dB 0.2Hz to 200kHz at rated output. (BALANCED, 200k ohms load.)

DISTORTION: Less than .01 % at 2V RMS Balanced output.

GAIN: Main output (SE or BAL input): 11.6dB Balanced output, 5.6dB Single Ended output. Tape output: OdB. (Processor input: OdB Balanced)

INPUT IMPEDANCE: 120K ohms Balanced, 60K ohms SE, Inputs (7): CD, TUNER, VIDEO, PHONO, AUX 1, AUX 2, PROCESSOR. (XLR and RCA connectors).

OUTPUT IMPEDANCE: 600 ohms Balanced, 300 ohms SE main (2), 20K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance. Outputs (3): 2 main, 1 tape (XLR and RCA connectors).

OUTPUT POLARITY: Non inverting

MAXIMUM INPUT: 20V RMS maximum Balanced, (10V RMS SE).

RATED OUTPUTS: 2V RMS (1V RMS SE) into 200K ohm balanced load (maximum balanced output capability is 30V RMS at less than 0.5% THE at 1 kHz).

CONTROLS: Volume (104 steps), Select Input. Push Buttons: Power, Proc, BAL/SE, Mute.

POWER SUPPLIES: Electronically regulated low and high voltage supplies. Automatic 40 sec. warm-up/brown-out mute. Line regulation better than .01 %.

NOISE: 2.7uV RMS residual IHF weighted balanced equivalent input noise with volume at 1 (106dB below 2V RMS output.)

TUBE COMPLEMENT: (4)-6H30P dual triodes, plus (1 each) 6L6GC and 6H30P in power supply.

POWER REQUIREMENTS: 100-135VAC 60Hz (200-270VAC 50/60Hz) 125 watts.

DIMENSIONS: 19" (48 cm) W x 7" (17.8 cm) H (standard panel) x 15.5" (39.4 cm) D. Handles extend 1V21' (3.8 cm) forward of the front panel.
WEIGHT: 29.6 lbs. (13.5 kg) Net; 43 lbs. (19.5 kg) Shipping. Specifications subject to change without notice. ©2004 Audio Research Corporation.

Downunder, the Ref 3 hasn't made it even to the ARC site yet. We will likely see it at CES this week for the very first time. You can expect a Mk.2 version of it in anywhere from 2 to 4 years if at all.

MCHD1, I know AR introduced a REF2 Mk2 within 1 year from the Ref 2, but was the event typical and part of a past pattern, or rather unique instead? On the other hand ARC has consistently offered upgrade paths to move users of its devices up the revision ladder.

GREGM, The device under discussion is the Ref 3 (Mark 1). It is highly unlikely that there will ever be a Ref 3 Mark 4. But if you are thinking about a Ref 4 instead, you may want to come back in approximately 4 years to find out how it will sound.

OK, I want it! I want it! I want it!
It's time to start throwing those hissy fit tantrums with my wife--who by the way could not care less about my righteous audio yearnings!
Jokes asides, the specs sound very impressive. At least on the page referred, the price seems the same 10K as Ref 2 Mk.2: I hope this is real and not an oversight from the site's owner.

Where did you find info about Ref 3? the Audio Research site does not have any mention of it yet.

Oh well, companies that have strong market presence with products with unique personalities will always be a little controversial and become the favorite topic of animated discussions. On the other hand, I hope we will be able to keep the bulk of the postings on this thread roughly on topic. I'd like to invite anyone who is visiting CES to comment on the Ref 3, if they have already seen it.

I have just called Audio Research. I have confirmation that Ref 3's price is the same as the older Ref 2 Mk.2. This is welcome news inddeed, as I was fearing/expecting/dreading a higher price. The product is being shown in Vegas at CES as I write. I will receive a blurb in the mail during the next couple of days about it. I will OCR it and post salient passages to the thread as soon as I receive it.

Rom, the observation of the Ref 2 sounding almost slightly phase-shifted and bloomy is right on. I am delighted that the minor shortcoming has been addressed in the Ref 3. How many hours have you racked up on the Ref 3 break-in this far? Are you using the stock power chord or an aftermarket powerchord? Thanks, Guido

Soundoc, are you saying that the Ref 3 has some of the razor-sharpness and etched in-your-face sound of ampliphiers from Spectral?

Marcello, if I understand things correctly, and the Ref 3 has an output impedance of 600 Ohms on the balanced outputs, this change makes the device meet the standard for balanced output impedance. I spoke to a friend of mine who is a pass lab dealer. He told me that the ratio between pre output impedance and amp input impedance need be only 1 to 10 for good results. So for example, as the Ref 3 has 600 Ohm output impedance, and the new Pass Labs X600.5 amps I am interested in have an input impedance of 22K Ohms, the two should, at least in theory, work well together, as the ratio is 1/30. Needless to say, my knowledge of the subject is rudimentary at best.

Marcelo, you are likely correct, but our hypothesis need be verified by someone more knowledgeable than us. When do you expect to receive the two units?

Audio Research has finally added a Ref 3 page to its site. Please see:
http://www.audioresearch.com/reference3.htm

Thank you so much Rom, the Ref 3 sounds more and more attractive. One of the probs I heard with the Ref 2 Mk. 2 was a trace of an almost glassy sheen on the instruments, almost a touch of glare. Is that gone as well?

Rom, I detected the slight 'sheen' when auditioning the Ref 2Mk. 2 next to a Boulder 1012 preamp, which seemed at the time to have a slightly warmer more musical sound, still maintaining top/bottom extension. The preamps were driving a Rowland 3.02, and a pair of Utopia (perhaps Altos). By comparison the Ref 2 Mk. 2 sounded just slightly hard. In complete honesty though, I auditioned the Ref 2 Mk. 2 another time on a different system, driving ARC VT200 and Maggie 3.6 speakers, and found it marvellous.
In both cases, the Ref 2 was driven by an ARC CD-3 Mk. 3.

Soundoc, please elaborate on your Ref 3 experience!

All, just yesterday I spent three hours comparing the ARC Ref 3 with the VAC Ren Sig II. Front end was supplied by the new DCS P8I single box player and by the Accuphase DP-77. Ref 3 was stunning and had no obvious problems driving the relatively low input impedance (22K Ohms) of the Rowland 302. Amazingly DCS P8I was also extremely good when driving the amp directly. You will find my rather detailed findings at:
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1123254379&openfrom&58&4#58
See you all there. Your opinions welcome!

Marcelo, 'bingo' on all counts! Detailed, open and certainly rich define the Ref 3 for me as well. And yes, gain seems a little low: with DCS P8I, REF 3, Rowland 302, Totem Manitoo, to get good sound pressure I had to raise the volume to 7. This may not be a problem though. If I recall correctly my Rowland 7M monoblock amps have a couple different gain settings.
Are you still using the Ref 3 with its original 6H30 tubes, or have you sent your unit to get the 6550C tubes and the bypass caps? Sonic differences?
Lastly, for me the 'fat lady has not sung yet!' I did A/B Ref 3 with the VAC Ren Signature II , however the real comparison will be against the much newer Ren II and Phi 2.0. Still lots of fun to go through!

Marcelo, this is apparently a change done on all new Ref 3 units leaving the factory now. Tubes are the 6550C and replace the 6H30 on the output stage. Leonard at ARC should be able to tell you more. OneObGin had his unit updated and raves about the change, but has not supplied us with a great amount of details. I have no idea how much ARC charge for an update post facto'.

Marcelo, I reread Oneobgin's posts starting at:
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?vaslt&1049587927&openfrom&151&4#151
The tubes being swapped out are the 6L6GC output tubes. Yes the update is made by ARC. I have confirmation from a dealer. Please let us know what you hear from Leonard.

Well I was wrong again. The tubes being swapped out are the 6H30 after all. OneObgin has posted more info m on his vertual system thread. Cost appears to be $59 for parts only, plus any transportation. OneObgin confirms improved bass and treble behavior after the update. Please see the few posts relating to this subject starting at::
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?vaslt&1049587927&openfrom&162&4#162

Well, this gets curiouser and curiouser! The Toronto dealer for ARC told me she prefers the old 6H30 sound to the updated 6550C sound, which implies addmitting the existance of the update. Furthermore Oneobgin has just paid $59 + shipping to ARC to supply 4 6550C tubes and related bypass caps. He had the update performed by his California dealer. If anyone speakes to Leonard at ARC tomorrow please post here. Just make sure you do not call it an upgrade but a 'rolling update', which is the term used by ARC. There is no version change on Ref 3 at all.

Hmm, terrible sin indeed this rolling update. $60 of parts, field installable. What's this world coming to. . . and the sin is spreading like wildfire. . . I have just heard that VAC is introducing a quiet rolling update of its own to its Ren II preamp. . . a brand new volume control. Terrible, terrible, I tell you. . . there is no more Religion no more!
"Forgive me Father, for I have sinned"
""What have you done my son?"
"I have committed the sin of rolling update, father. . ."
"And how often, my son?"
"Well Father, you see, I was doing things to this preamp, and it was all real innocent at first, you know. . . we was only kidding around. . . and then we kind of started looking under its grille. . . and you know, I had just looked at these sites of CD modders like APL and ModWright, . . . like they show them big rolling mods all new all the time. . . . and like I just couldn't help weselves, I just had to roll my update. . . like right then and there!"
"My son, my son, you have been keeping bad company! You should only associate with those 'good' people, like Accuphase, who never roll anything at the public before their quinquennial plan has run its course. . . You will write a long letter of contrition to all your customers tonight. . . and you will make my own rolling update free! Now get out and sin no more!!!!"

In a more serious mode, what is the length of the Ref 3 stock power chord supplied by Audio Research?

AGaffer, what difference did you perceive in your amps replacing the 6550C tubes with the 6550WE? And let us also know what the difference with the two tubes is in the Ref 3.

Thank you Agaffer, keep us posted.

OK Agaffer, but how did the sound differ from that of the stock tube during those two hours?

I have now a Ref 3 that has just passed the 200 hrs break in mark. The unit is the latest version with new bypass caps and 6550C in PS. Stage opening up nicely with a significan amount of detail, authority, musicality, micro and macro dynamics. I estimate another 150 to 200 hrs to complete breakin process. I have no immediate plans to test NOS 6550 tubes at this time.

JAFOX, amazingly enough, I have been pretty good on this thread. Any idea what was nuked?