TonyKay, the SP-11 is not one of the legendary ARC classics, hence it's lack of sale. It replaced the SP-10, which IS one of the classics. The SP-11 suffers from the subtly "white/dry" sound of the early ARC tube/ss hybrids, the SP-10 has an old-fashioned tube sound---lush, soft, sweet. Neither is as transparent and uncolored as newer ARC pre's, which can be had for less $ than the SP-10 and -11.
Should I consider the newer Audio Research pre & power amps, when I play records not CD's
I worked in and owned upper end audio stores back in the 1970's. (McIntosh B&O Magnepan, etc) I have been pretty much out of audio for the past 30 years. In my old age, I want to play the records I have saved (many MFSL & Japanese virgin vinyl) I kept my B&O linear 4002 W/mmc20CL cart. and it still works and I have newer B&W 804 speakers. I am going to get a new table of better quality. I have always wanted an Audio Research tube amp and Preamp. I am considering the LS 26 or LS17SE Preamp and older D90/115 or newer VS 115 or the Ref 75SE. I am in my 60's and my hearing is not as good as it was, plus I am lost with all the digital technology. (just started using a smart phone) I just wanted to get opinions spending $4000 on older ARC or bite the bullet and spend in the $7000 up. Is it worth spending the money for the new equipment when I am only playing records.