Audio Research Ref 6 vs 6SE

I upgraded from the ARC REF 5SE to the REF 6SE so I cannot speak from direct experience. Is it worth it? I have read most everything in print on the subject. If your system is at this caliber… then absolutely the sound quality change is substantial. Also, you have a world class preamp… the upgrade helps maintain its value and will sound better. There is another forum, audio aficionado, where many members own this pre amplifier and systems at this level. There are a number of threads on the subject.



Yes, it is done at factory only. This is also something you want to do while offered. 

@cclee2022 Check out the "Audio Research Ref 6 SE" thread. https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/audio-research-ref-6-se

My initial observations are there. Since that time the unit is almost re-broken-in (483 hours) and has continued to get better. It is had to know exactly though, as I continually make improvements to the system (i.e., LPS for Roon Nucleus and ENO filter, plus more), but those are sudden and there has been a continual improvement that I attribute to the SE upgrade. One of my friends visited and made an unsolicited comment about how great the system sounded (best ever), and he had heard it in the last two rooms, which were significantly better.

"Worth it" is a judgement call that depends on your personal finances and what the cost of other improvements you can make are. I would do it again, and fully recognize there will be a REF7 in a few years.

Thank you so much for sharing your valuable comments. 

I have the Ref 6, and have heard the Ref 6SE at the dealer - now I did not do a true A/B, but I can’t say as I can hear any difference. The Ref 6E did use that cheesy plastic remote (thanks McIntosh group). The 6 has a nice aluminum remote - and who knows what else. I upgraded from an LS27 that I loved, and the Ref 6 was better - not sure if it was $10,000 dollars worth though. What I was shocked at was Rowland amps - wow - lit my system up! I am sure there are a lot more folks here that are more qualified to answer that a/b question. I always wanted to try the Cary Audio SLP-05 - but the REF 6 has given me NO issues, don’t want to fix what ain’t broke. Keep us posted.

To spend five figures or not spend five figures on a preamifier, that is the question!