New PrimaLuna versus used Audio Research preamp?

As posted previously, I'm shopping tube preamps.

Have an opportunity to buy a friend's ARC Reference 5SE, as he upgraded to a new 6SE.

Alternatively, a new PL EVO 300 or 400 is also on my radar, and even new would cost 20% to 30% less than the used 5SE.

Anyone here experience both units and brands?

Thanks!

bobbydd06-18-2022 6:18pm

big_greg Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 6,565 posts 06-23-2022 at 07:15pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete @samzx12 It looked like the OP was weighing a used ARC vs. new PL. That's great you got most of your investment back when you sold your PL. Typically, you're lucky to get 50-60% of new price on most items. I think Primaluna has a lot going for them. I prefer the looks, sound, and build of the ARC. Others might like the PL better for the same reasons.
big_greg Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 6,565 posts 06-23-2022 at 12:59pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I haven't heard the newest Primaluna gear, but my impression of it over a couple of extended listening sessions that it was more "tubey" and very euphonic. That is what got me interested in tubes actually. Having said that, I own a LS26 and a Vsi55 ARC integrated, and have heard Tomic601's 5se. If you have the funds for the 5se, jump on it. It's likely to be an end-game piece, and if it's not, you'll recover most of what you spent for it if you're buying used, while even heavily discounted, the PL will lose a lot of it's value if you try to flip it, which you will probably more likely to do. Some other options to consider. The Modwright preamps are really nice. I owned a LS100 for a long time. I replaced it with a Herron Audio VTSP-360 which I highly recommend.