2. amps-preamps
  3. 127679-91597

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. 
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Showing 2 responses by bpoletti

bpoletti
1,556 posts
 
Go with all Herron Audio.  I haven't heard anything better.  IMO, VTPH-2 phono stage is as good as it gets, I haven't heard any line stage better than the Herron VTSP-3A (r03).  Amps are extremely good.  No coloration, no distortion.  Just the music.
bpoletti
1,556 posts
 
You're right.  There are few used Herron Audio components for sale even though there are thousands of units out there.  Could it be that the owners are so satisfied with them that they find few other components good enough to replace them?  What I've seen in the used market is that the few used Herron Audio components for sale appear to sell for a pretty high percentage of their original retail price, and they don't stay on the market long.  Even the 20+ year-old phono stages seem to hold their value and disappear quickly. 

But that's just my opinion.  And observation.   
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