2. amps-preamps
  3. 124244-13638

Why Are There So Many Audio Research Reference 5SE's For Sale

Been looking for a tubed preamp with high quality balance capabilities. Was looking at the Ref 5SE's but there seems to be many available. Generally when you see that there is some kind of issue. Sometimes they want to move up the line to the latest or they just arent that good. Case in point when was the last VAC Signature you saw out here. The good stuff seems to be rare and when they show they go fast. Comments and recommendations welcome.

fooolish1

Showing 2 responses by nglazer

nglazer
846 posts
 
Simple reason: ARC "upgrades" their pre's every ten minutes, thus impairing the resale value of the ARC pre you own unless you pay for the upgrade. In contrast, a company like VTL, whose 7.5 iii pre I happily own, upgrades their models every few YEARS, and only when there are significant improvements to be made.

Different business models. I know which one I prefer. No disrespect for ARC intended.

Neal
nglazer
846 posts
 
If ARC is upgrading their tube pre's every 2-3 years, (i) how advanced were the original models when marketed (was there "planned obsolescence?), and (ii) this is substantially more frequent than other reputable pre mfrs., e.g., C-J, VAC, VTL, et al.

I carry no brief for VTL other than I love my 7.5 iii pre, and mean no disrespect for ARC gear, which has a stellar reputation. But I also have a 25 year old C-J PF-R SS pre in my BR system which was never "upgraded" but has stood the test of time, and prior to the VTL, a Wyetech Opal, which did not "upgrade" during its 10+ years on the market.

Neal
More to discover