How does the AR Ls1 compare w/ other AR preamps

Eagleman: Don't rightly remember what brand of tube.
This was about 8-9 years ago. Sorry...

I haven't like the lower end CJ preamps I have heard (almost sound muffled to me).
I owned the LS-1 and found its presentation forward, crisp and clean.
I actually asked the factory (Mr. Leonard) how to reduce gain (VERY powerful IMO) which can be done by melting a solder trace on the bottom of its main PCB.
Hope this helps...

Factory faxed a diagram which I no longer have.
Call and ask for Leonard -he'll certainly help.
Oh, by the way, I now own an ARC LS-9 which is a steal for the (used) asking price ($500 - $600).
I'm just puzzled why this pre sells so cheap.
I'd get an LS-9 before an LS-1 (bal in/out, remote, etc.).

They both have the pristine, extended ARC "house sound" which I prefer. Also, excellent dynamics and neutrality.
I had trouble with tube noise in the LS-1 (has a single tube). I tried several different tubes and think I finally found a quiet one.
The LS-1 one is built like a tank and uses MASSIVE transformers which may account for its monster gain.
I cannot live without remote which led to a Classe #6, a Levinson #39 (CD player with built in remote volume) and my current ARC LS-9.