Upgrade from my Audio Research LS7 to a remote control model?

If you really are happy with what you have why take a chance with changing out your pre-amp for something different? I had a ARC SP10II and wanted a remote volume control so I just bought a passive remote control unit and put it in my tape loop. If your LS 7 doesn't have a tape loop you can put it between your amp and pre-amp. 

If you want to get an ARC unit with a remote control you must bear in mind that you will also be changing the sound. Subtle perhaps, or not, depending on your preferences and expectations. Better maybe, but only perhaps. Budget? Tubes? 

Why dont you get an ARC LS-15 or LS-16mki. Same sig sound as your LS-7 but much better performing all around.

You could just add this remote volume control and call it a day.  As @newbee said, a new preamp will likely change the sound for better or worse depending on your taste.  If you like your sound as is I’d play it safe and add a good remote volume control.  Placette is reputed to be very neutral and uses pricey Vishay resistors in its volume control so very likely will not change your sound at all.  Unless you think a new ARC would be a sound upgrade for your tastes, I’d just do the Placette.  Best of luck

http://www.placetteaudio.com/remote_control.htm

Wow!! looking at the remote volume control I cant understand why pay $1300 for this devise. I would rather have a better preamp that has better  soundstage and be more neutral than the LS7 for not much more $$ than the volume control. But what ever floats your boat.

mktracy, not to worry I think. I believe OP has posted a 'wanted' ad for the LS15 and LS16 on USAM for a used unit. Not the SP 16 however which I think might have been a good, if not better, choice as well. Oh well.

FWIW used Placettes pop up frequently for about $500. 

Thanks for the suggestions here.  Yes, I've posted a WTB ad for an LS15 or 16.  I already have a AR PH3 phono preamp so no built in phono stage needed.

@dave43 I had a LS-15 for about 10 years and was very happy with it till I got a LS-25MKI. The PH3/ LS15 was a great combo and I think you will be very happy with. If looking at a LS16 make sure you get a MKI not a MKII, the MKI will have the same sound sig as your LS7 just larger soundstage and fuller sounding all around plus it uses 6922. Good luck and keep enjoying the music.

Thank you!  I appreciate your advice.  

@dave43 just checking up to see if you found a ARC LS 15 or 16 yet.

Still looking, thanks!

LS-16

Owned a LS7 when it first came out and honestly I didn’t care for it. ARC didn’t make the LS7 long and remembered the LS8 followed very soon and that one didn’t last long either. Went through a few preamps later and settle for sometime on a ModWright SWL 9.0 SE. The MW is a great little preamp with remote and can be had used fairly cheap. Later I upgraded in the MW line and took home an ARC LS 25 MKII which is a nice preamp but I preferred the little MW still over the more expensive ARC. Ended up with a ModWright LS36.5 which is a great preamp. If you can find a MW SWL 9.0 SE you should consider. I know you want to stay with ARC but I’d look elsewhere first unless you’re looking at the LS28 or older Reference units which are still pricey and very good.