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LS15, LS16, SP8, D200/300/400, 100.2, D130





PHOTO: Audio Research LS15

astroimage,

I've used Audio Research gear since 1985 and can't think of better value, as everything I bought is worth about what I paid.

Paul A has made a very good suggestion for a combination- an LS16 using E88CC / 6922's with a 100.2 solid state amplifier should make wonderful sounds.

In my view the best LS series tube preamps have been the 6922 versions of the LS5, LS15, and LS25 and any of these sound very nice with the PH3. I've seen LS15's in the $12-1300 range recently.

You might consider too selling the PH3 and adding $3-400 or so for an SP8/II all tube phono preamp and putting it in good order with new caps and tubes. The SP8 is wonderful and though I've only tried it briefly with the solid state D130, I think it's a great preamp that is wonderfully spatial, detailed, and dynamic.

After 20 years using Audio Research tube gear, I tried an LS3 solid state line stage with a D130, 130W, solid state, in my office and this experience has confirmed how pleasant the ARC solid state power amplifiers have become. Extremely neutral, transparent and dynamic. I have thought of changing the LS3 to an LS15. The 100.2 is particularly good- transparent and spatial in the way I associate with tube amplifiers. You might consider also the D200/300/400, D240, and D130. If you consider the 200W D400 be sure it's a MKII.

If your budget allows and you are very phono orientated, you might ask ARC what the upgrade from PH3 to PH3SE involves and costs- better capacitors I think- and it's a noticeable improvement.

Overall, I think the PH3> LS15 or LS16 > 100.2 (100W) or D300 (160W) combination would sound great and with patience also fall within your budget.

Happy Hunting!

Cheers,

Bambi B

[ARC: SP8, SP10, LS3, D115, D130]




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  • LS15, LS16, SP8, D200/300/400, 100.2, D130 - Bambi B 05/26/0907:07:07 05/26/09 (0)

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