Using a 110V Preamp In The UK

Hi,

I am thinking of buying an Audio Research LS-15 (or 16) from the US. To use it in the UK I can either get the unit converted in the UK by the distributer or use a 240V to 110V converter.

I was quoted £350\$530 + whatever parts are required, by Absolute Sounds in the UK which is quite expensive. My other option is to use a 240V to 110V convertor which I am seriously considering as I am unlikely to want to sell this unit for many years.

I have sourced a Portable Stepdown Auto-Transformer rated at 100VA. "The auto-transformer uses highly efficient toroidal windings and each unit is encapsulated with potting compound (to UL94V) in a robust housing. All types are manufactured to BS7452:1991 and IEC.989:1991, and generate virtually no external magnetic field." (that was lifted from the website)

Will using a transformer degrade the sound ? Are there any possible issues with using a 110V preamp with a 240V power amp ? (I will be running a balanced configuration between pre and power) Does the LS-15 have a 240V tap ? Does the frequency have any effect ? Are there any important specs that the transformer should have ? Can anyone recommend a suitable unit ?

Any help appreciated

Paul Liddy

PS: A second hand LS-15 sells for around £2000\$3000 in the UK. A new LS-16 is £3700\$5600. You guys in the US don't know how lucky you are !