Why was the entry level line at Audio Research eliminated?

Probably more to do with the new owners, and more focus on a world market than an American owned company catering to US sales. Not saying the direction they have taken wasn’t a wise one, but gone are the days calling them to ask a question, send in an old discontinued piece to get repaired or order a part directly. Even my local dealer has a heck of a time getting access to the new company. 
For the money a company like ModWright builds as good as or better than ARC, and there’s others as mentioned. ModWright is a great example that equipment can be made in The States that is built well, sounds great and at a reasonable price. 

That’s good to hear. Hopefully things are better, but it would be nice to see them bring a couple models out that are more reasonably priced for people just getting into the hobby that might later move up the line.