Heard or experienced Audio Research D300 SS Amp


I presently own a Classe Audio Model Ten 125wpc power amp. This has been in my system for the past 12 years. I have an opportunity to buy a used Audio Research D300 160wpc solid state power amp. I know nothing of this particular amp, but I do know of Audio Research tube amps and the product lines quality.

My questions are, given that this amp went for around 3500 in 1995, what would one think it is worth now. Looks wise, I would rate it an 8/10.

Is this another dry and lifeless sounding solid state amp? Although I love my Classe amp, I feel it could provide a tiny bit more detail and better control of the speakers. Will I get that with the Audio Research? Could a few of you enlighten me?

System:
Classe Ten 125 wpc amp
Audible Illusions Modulus 3 preamp
Vandersteen 2CE speakers
VPI/Rega/Grado analog Turntable
Marantz SA8001 sacd player
Jolida JD-100 tube cd player
Magnum Dynalab FT-101A tuner
MIT Terminator2 interconnects
MIT Terminator2 speaker cable(double runs for bi wiring)
Various Shunyata power cprds
Shunyata Guardian 2 and 4 power conditioners
numerous cones and tweaks

Bob
128x128stereo5

Showing 1 response by janmike

Bob,
I am a huge believer in synergy. I think the only way you are going to know if that fits into your system is by trying it yourself. Looking down your list of equipment I see various names that I am using. I am running ARC LS26 with MIT, Esoteric, Virtual DynamicsÂ…. and things sound really good. My rationale there is a direct relationship between speakers and ALL other equipment and that is why I personally elected to mate the Proac speakers with ARC gear. The VS115 is the only piece left for me to purchase. Current I am using the Proceed AMP5. which does sound good BTW.

The Proac speakers sound great with the Proceed gear I have, but the combination of Proac and ARC is really something special. And perhaps this is not for everyone, but I LIKE IT. I really think you need to do the direct comparison and listen for yourself. You have great gear as it stands right now and perhaps it can get a little or a lot better. Good luck and do the comparison if you can.