After auditioning several preamps, there was no doubt that the MBL was the best to my ears. I think that the ARC Ref 3 is a very good preamp, and for the price could be considered a bargan but so could the MBL. The definition and delicacy with which the MBL 6010D presents the music is not describable. If you are in the market for a preamp of this caliber, find one of these to listen to before making a decision.
