2. amps-preamps
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Has anyone heard the new ARC Ref 3 Preamp?

I was just wondering if anyone has had the opportunity to audition the new Audio Research Reference 3 Preamplifier

I have heard the new CJ Act 2, and had some reservations about it's sound although quite good; trying to compare with the CJ unit, VTL 7.5, and the Audio Note M6.

All thougts would be appreciated.

Thanks much
musicdesign
usblues
1,217 posts
 
Excellent critique Jimburger,,,Bob
kw6
692 posts
 
Hi,

You might also want to consider the Aesthetix Callisto Signature in that price range.

Good Luck!
meby
46 posts
 
I compared it today to a VTL 5.5 and it sounded better but maybe not worth the price difference. It sounded good but I would not pay $10,000 for it.
bambadoo
19 posts
 
It recieved a great review in a Norwegian Hi-End magazine this month. Haven't heard it myself.

Regards
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Musicdesign and all, just yesterday I spent three hours compaing the ARC Ref 3 with the VAC Ren Sig II. Front end was supplied by the new DCS P8I single box player and by the Accuphase DP-77. Ref 3 was stunning. Amazingly DCS P8I was also extremely good when driving the amp directly. You will find my rather detailed findings at:
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1123254379&openfrom&58&4#58
Please visit. Your opinions welcome!
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