Audio Research Ref3 vs VTL 6.5 or 7.5II


I am looking for a tube preamp with true balanced circuit and would like to seek your comment/experience on Audio Research Ref3 vs VTL 6.5.

BTW, is VTL 7.5II significantly better & worth the extra money?

My audio system consists of Marantz SA-7S1, Madrigal poweramp & Revel Studio speaker.

Many thanks!
ckkeung

Showing 1 response by elevenmg

Three years ago when I decided I wanted change my system to a tube system (from rowland) I narrowed it down to VTL and Audio Research.

I started to lean towards VTL then two years ago I was at CES and had a demo between the 6.5 and Ref3.

It was so long ago that I can remember specific differences between the two units however I do recall enjoying the 6.5 over the Ref3 with every cut that was played.

One thing to note as well we took the tops of both units and looked in side. the VTL looked like it had beefier components.

I ended up with the VTL along with their amps.

I've heard the 7.5II in a few different systems but never A/B'd I think the 7.5 is a fantastic pre-amp.

I'm banging the VTL drum for sure, however I'm happy I've gotten to a point where I just sit down and play music with out thinking about components.

Now I just think about new components when I'm bored at work.