Time to upgrade the pre-amp.
I am currently running and ARC SP-16l into an Art Audio PX-25 power amp which feeds a pair of Blumenhofer Genuin FS2s (94db). I listen to mostly vinyl atm, and I have an external phono stage (Icon PS1 mkii). I think at this point, the pre-amp is the weak link.
Although I am not wedded to buying another ARC preamp, I am leaning in that direction due to company reputation, longevity, accessibility of local dealers (Northern NJ) and resale value, though I am definitely looking for that full mid-range and "musicality" typically associated with all tube architectures.
I have an opportunity to buy an SP-11 for $4,000, and from what I am seeing, if I wait, I may be able to get an SP-10 in that same range. However, for ~$2,000 more, I could likely get a Ref 5SE, which would be the top of the budget, but has in addition to any sonic advantages, a remote and tube hour tracker.
My questions are: (1) is it worth holding out for the newer Ref series (~10 yrs old at this point) vs the SP10/11 which are 40 years old at this point; and (2) if it comes between the SP10 and SP11, What I have read here is that the SP10 is all tube, but while that unit’s phono stage is particularly strong, the rest of the line inputs are not up to the SP-11. If it turns out that they are close, I would likely choose the SP10 between those two.
Very interested in how folks think about this.
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A couple of observations/suggestions based on my experience with older ARC gear. ARC can rebuild every piece of equipment they have manufactured, EVER! That is unparalleled product support. I have owned 2 ARC preamps, SP9 mk2 and LS-25 mk2. The SP-9 mk 2 has an integrated phono stage, whereas the LS 25 mk2 is used with an all-tube ARC Reference Phono. The Reference Phono has 14 tubes, 11-6922s in the gain stage and 3 tubes in the all-tube power supply. The resulting combination has the best of both worlds IMO. The "newer" ARC hybrid line stages are much more neutral than the older all tube models with better extension at the frequency extremes. With the all tube Ref Phono, you can "roll tubes" to get a warmer, more full sound, or use the Sovtek tubes to get a slightly leaner, but more "accurate" sound. I recommend trying out some 6922 JJ tubes if you haven’t already in the LS-16, and I while prefer them to Sovtek in the Reference Phono, your mileage may vary. I have found that they excel in the areas you find lacking in your current setup. Tube Depot or The Tube Store have them in stock routinely and will match them for gain and low noise, which I highly recommend for preamp use. Best of luck with your endeavor. |
Question: IF wanting to bi-amp those speakers, https://www.blumenhofer-acoustics.com/Products/SerieGenuin/GenuinFS2-2/GenuinFS2-2.php use the 6 wpc PX25 tubes for the upper driver, and something stronger for the bass driver: IF preamp want's little or no gain for the PX25, how does that low gain leave you for the amp(s) driving the bass? |
- 41 posts total