Has anybody heard the new Audio Research LS 27?

Differences of opinion, obviously, or other gear or rooms, but I am one who finds the LS27 superior.

and I agree with Elizabeth, those that want to bash go right ahead...ARC has, thankfully, had their best years these past 3 yrs. And, also thankfully, their new pieces have been some of the best they've made in years. So jab away, the laugh's on you....

Hi onhwy61
fanboy here, only because I've heard it. And I've heard it added to several systems that made the music making even more involved. Maybe if you had one in your system you wouldn't think it hype.

Thanks for posting the review. He's right about the LS27...but I never liked the LS26. Go hear what's great about the new line of ARC models, any of you detractors may just change your minds....

Good point, but he does mention comparisons several times, so it's hardly glaring. Besides, if you can't pop for a REF5, then the LS27 is as close as you'll get, unless someone would "give" you a REF3. ah, in my dreams...

now there's sensible thinking....I didn't want to insult you and say we're like-minded, everyone knows I'm crazy!

Again, this is utter hogwash..

"But even ARC admits that with a few upgraded parts the SP6 can sound substantially like their current preamp offerings. If that's the case, then the difference between the Ref 3 and the Ref 5 really is very, very small. Whether or not that very, very small difference is worthwhile or valued is a separate question"

If you've heard both the pieces in a system, you would not be making such assertions. Agreed, sometimes with this hobby it can involve diminishing returns, but not in this case. To the OP, the LS 27 settles nicely between the REF3 and the REF5. Do go listen to it if you can. I'm not sure what you've been using or comparison shopping for, but in the $7k range it's a winner.