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Why is the Audio Research SP8 so highly regarded?

I have a MRk II SP8 that was modified by Steve Huntley when he was at Great Northern Sound. I don't use the phono section anymore as I have acquired a ARC PH7 so the SP8 is now simply used as a line stage preamp. Am considering replacing with something like a LS26 or Ref 1 { both are in my budget range} Interested from those who might have experience with the SP8 and can offer advice on how much sonically the newer ARC line stage models will improve overall presentation from both analog and digital sources?   
gm1

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gm1 OP
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Just a little more context on my system. Currently running SP8 into an ARC VT100. My speakers are the JBL Classic 100 reissues. Sources are PS Audio Direct Stream DAC and PS audio transport. For analog I run the Dr Feickert Woodpecker with Soundsmith Zephyr cartridge and ARC PH7 phone stage.   
gm1's avatar
gm1 OP
2 posts
 
Thanks for the comments and feedback

Sounds like I need to focus on the Ref series as a replacement. Right now the Ref 1 used can be found for around 3K while the Ref 3 is around 5K. 
The LS26 seems to be a scaled down version of the Ref 3 and is in the $2,600 range. Is there a significant difference between a Ref 1 and Ref 3? Also, keep in mind the JBL 100 Classics are great rock speakers, which is the style of music my system is geared towards; however they are not the typical high resolution type speaker many audiophiles use in their systems.     
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