Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Audio Research, Inc. LS-25 Mk II Preamplifier (Tube) by scousepasty

Model:	LS-25 Mk II
Category:	Preamplifier (Tube)
Suggested Retail Price:	$5500.
Description:	Stereo line-stage pre-amp w. 2 Russian 6H30 tubes, remote control, XLR and RCA connections for all inputs, 2 sets each of of XLR and RCA outputs.
Manufacturer URL:	Audio Research, Inc.
Model Picture:	View

Review by scousepasty ( A ) on January 15, 2006 at 10:45:34
IP Address: 86.142.115.214

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for the LS-25 Mk II

I bought this pre-amp as an upgrade from my previous pre-amp which was an ARC LS2B, that was preceeded by an ARC LS2 which I bought as an upgrade from an ARC LS1. So you can tell that I am a fan of Audio Research amplifiers.
This unit was an ex-demo item from the dealer that I usually use and was only used for about 20 hours in their demo room. It was my choice to contact him upon seeing this pre on his website. My main reasons for purchase was the joint conveniences of remote control handset and the ability to use other equipment that I had with the XLR balanced inputs. I already had amps with balanced inputs that I fed from the LS2B but that pre has only RCA inputs.
Overall, I was disappointed in the sound of this pre-amp, it did not make the quite considerable improvement that I heard when I traded up to the LS2B.
Yes, everything became a little clearer and some increase in soundstage but nothing dramatic.
I have since traded this for an ARC Ref 2 pre and that is a whole different story but I will post a review ot that seperately.

Product Weakness: Not a significant improvement over lower cost ARC pre-amps.
Product Strengths: Ease of control of functions with the remote handset.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	ARC 120 / 150 bi-amp.
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	LS25 Mk2
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	VPI HRX
Speakers:	Quad ELS 63 / SW63 subs.
Cables/Interconnects:	Kimber & Van Den Hul
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Classical & Jazz.
Time Period/Length of Audition:	12 months.
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Russ Andrews.
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner
Your System (if other than home audition):	See inmate's system post.

Product Weakness:	Not a significant improvement over lower cost ARC pre-amps.
Product Strengths:	Ease of control of functions with the remote handset.