I purchased one a few weeks ago brand new from a dealer for under 10k easily. I am almost at 200 hours of tube usage now. Before that plateau it sounded good but a bit flat in it's ability to reveal those holographic images. This preamp is just what I needed to complete my system! Keithmundy is correct, it has a huge sound stage. I am finally starting to hear the separation and three dimensional depth on recordings now. Midrange and highs are so sweet. Bass is solid and more than enough to satisfy my ears.
Audio Research Reference 5 SE Preamps For Sale?
Why are there so many ARC Ref 5 SE preamps for sale lately? Is there something that I don't know? I have been very impressed with this preamp in the past and have always kept an eye out for a good used one. There were 5 of them on Gon at one time not too long ago! Is there a particular reason why people are unloading them at this time? Thank you