2. amps-preamps
  3. 178939-172731

Time to upgrade the pre-amp.

I am currently running and ARC SP-16l into an Art Audio PX-25 power amp which feeds a pair of Blumenhofer Genuin FS2s (94db). I listen to mostly vinyl atm, and I have an external phono stage (Icon PS1 mkii). I think at this point, the pre-amp is the weak link.

Although I am not wedded to buying another ARC preamp, I am leaning in that direction due to company reputation, longevity, accessibility of local dealers (Northern NJ) and resale value, though I am definitely looking for that full mid-range and "musicality" typically associated with all tube architectures.

I have an opportunity to buy an SP-11 for $4,000, and from what I am seeing, if I wait, I may be able to get an SP-10 in that same range. However, for ~$2,000 more, I could likely get a Ref 5SE, which would be the top of the budget, but has in addition to any sonic advantages, a remote and tube hour tracker.

My questions are: (1) is it worth holding out for the newer Ref series (~10 yrs old at this point) vs the SP10/11 which are 40 years old at this point; and (2) if it comes between the SP10 and SP11, What I have read here is that the SP10 is all tube, but while that unit’s phono stage is particularly strong, the rest of the line inputs are not up to the SP-11. If it turns out that they are close, I would likely choose the SP10 between those two.

Very interested in how folks think about this.

saulh
voodoofunk's avatar
voodoofunk
42 posts
 

Just purchased a PATHOS SYNAPSE Preamp. Now Kevin Deal and I have something else in common!!! ;)

It proved to be the biggest upgrade I have ever experienced...and after much thought conclude that the fact it is a Dual Mono design has to be a major contributing factor.

I know this...never has it ever occurred to me to ask: "Hmmm...I’m not getting the BASS I think I should be...I wonder if it is the Preamp???" Well...guess what...IT IS THE PREAMP!!!

fleschler
2,007 posts
 

The LS28 was transformed by changing the tubes to 6N6 (also known as 6H6).  I compared my friends system (YG Sonja 2.3s) with my pre-amp (custom) and they sounded 90% similar with the new tubes.  With the 6H30s, yuk!   After hearing the slightly modified LS28 (tubes), and having extensively heard the SP10 and 11s over the years, I would choose the LS28.  The SP10 is very big sounding, lovely, but so many tubes and not as clean sounding line stage as an LS28.   The SP11 is different sounding and I missed the big open sound of the SP10 when I heard it although it is very clean (I owned an SP14 back 40 years ago-nice preamp).  

pjwpkm
2 posts
 

Check this out.

 

https://www.zestoaudio.com/leto-ultra-ii-preamplifier/

fleschler
2,007 posts
 

I have a Zesto Allesso SUT.  I was using it with a Benz Ruby 3 until it wore out.  Now, I am very happy with a Dynavector 20X2 L dialed in perfectly with the SUT.   Zesto has an interesting presence feature.  I would note that their BIA 200 amp is a dead ringer for the EAR 890 amp.  

mytthor
18 posts
 

A couple of observations/suggestions based on my experience with older ARC gear. ARC can rebuild every piece of equipment they have manufactured, EVER! That is unparalleled product support. I have owned 2 ARC preamps, SP9 mk2 and LS-25 mk2. The SP-9 mk 2 has an integrated phono stage, whereas the LS 25 mk2 is used with an all-tube ARC Reference Phono. The Reference Phono has 14 tubes, 11-6922s in the gain stage and 3 tubes in the all-tube power supply. The resulting combination has the best of both worlds IMO. The "newer" ARC hybrid line stages are much more neutral than the older all tube models with better extension at the frequency extremes. With the all tube Ref Phono, you can "roll tubes" to get a warmer, more full sound, or use the Sovtek tubes to get a slightly leaner, but more "accurate" sound. I recommend trying out some 6922 JJ tubes if you haven’t already in the LS-16, and I while prefer them to Sovtek in the Reference Phono, your mileage may vary. I have found that they excel in the areas you find lacking in your current setup. Tube Depot or The Tube Store have them in stock routinely and will match them for gain and low noise, which I highly recommend for preamp use. Best of luck with your endeavor.

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