Had a fairly close direct comparison between my LS-25 Mk I with ref. level mod and a stock Ref-2 MkII a few years back. I think the powercord were slightly different. Some $$$ on the Ref 2 vs. my DIY $30 belden cord on the LS-25.
The sound was very, very close. The Ref-2 MkII was slightly more forward, faster, and more air. But everyone thought that the differences are cosistent with the 6H30 supertubes inside the Ref 2. The modded LS-25 came with a quad of Siemens 6922 GNSC recommended. Sounded more lush and sweet. But I think the sound would have opened up more if I had put in some Amperex tubes.
FrankC
The sound was very, very close. The Ref-2 MkII was slightly more forward, faster, and more air. But everyone thought that the differences are cosistent with the 6H30 supertubes inside the Ref 2. The modded LS-25 came with a quad of Siemens 6922 GNSC recommended. Sounded more lush and sweet. But I think the sound would have opened up more if I had put in some Amperex tubes.
FrankC