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In Reply to: RE: Used Audio Research LS Preamp Recommendations? posted by The Lost Bears on July 11, 2015 at 10:56:30
Thank you. This is most useful information.
I haven't done any careful listening to the VT-100 MK I vs. Mk III. Initial impressions are that the III is providing more detail. Whether is has that magical, relaxed tube air and bloom remains to be seen, but so far I'm excited.
I'll be sure to keep out a lookout for the LS 25 Mk II as I consider this question further.
Follow Ups:
I would pass on the LS-25 mkII. For a few hundred dollars more you can find a REF2. Much better preamp.
I owned the ARC VT100mkII which I thought was an outstanding tube amp. Very robust, powerful, and detailed.
However, I was not a fan of the LS16mkII or LS25mkII linestages. I thought these sounded a little lean or too neutral, and lacking 'presence' in the lower mids and further down. It didn't sound very full-bodied or robust to me. It was more typical of a solid-state sound but with less bass slam. Of course my standard of comparison was the Cary SLP-05 which is a much more 'tubey' sounding linestage.
I also liked the Aesthetix Calypso linestage better than the ARC LS25mkII. It was a bit warmer and more tube-like to my ears. The Aesthethix also has similar features and functionality to the ARC with lots of RCA & XLR ins/outs, full function remote with input select, etc. There's even a gain jumper inside.
Good luck!
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