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
The Ref 5se is very available due to introduction of the Ref 6 which replaces it. But rest assured, the Ref 5se is an astonishingly good pre which can be stolen at used prices.
Did you own the piece? Are you an AR guy? I understand the Anniversary 40 is the one to have but out of my budget

OP-


if you are in the market for an ARC pre-amp, you will be hard-pressed

to find one better than the Ref5 SE.

The ARC Ref5SE is a phenomenal preamplifier, as is its companion Ref Phono 2SE phono stage.