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Which ARC reference component to upgrade?

I have the ARC Reference 3 preamp and Reference 110 amp and am considering an upgrade in the ARC line. I can't do both right now. The question is, which change (Ref 3 to Ref 5SE; Ref 110 to Ref 150) would result in the best improvement in my system?

System:
Ref 3
Ref 110
Wilson Sophia 2
Music Server to Berkeley Alpha Dac 1
Esoteric X01
FMS Nexus cables
Ag insider logo xs@2xmmcghee
tpreaves's avatar
tpreaves
2,686 posts
 
Wow, you feel the need to upgrade ARC Reference equipment? You have the "upgradeitis" disease bad, real bad. Seek professional help immediately. :)
tobb
131 posts
 
I agree with Onhwy61.
What would you like to see improved.
Speakers are usually the best bang for the buck in an upgrade.
Although I am not a fan of Wilson the Sophia's are a decent speaker
scouter766
8 posts
 
I would borrow some Transparent Cables from a local dealer and see if that fits the bill for the next upgrade
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gpgr4blu
1,082 posts
 
I had a Ref 5 and Ref 110 with Wilson Sashas and first upgraded to Ref 40 which was a big step and then from 110 to 150 which was close to the same jump in performance. I'd say in your case the Ref 5se upgrade may be slightly more pronounced since you are going from the Ref 3.
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