Audio Research Reference 5, older model or upgrade

J

Jeb-loves-hifi

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Feb 20, 2018
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So it's time for another preamp and I've been dragging my feet because I can't make a decision. I'm looking at the Reference 5 (have a Ref 3 now) and really want to stick with ARC. Even though the 5 is, in theory "an old model" the quality is obviously still there. But now the Ref 6 is out too and I kind of want to spend a little extra for the newest model. Have any of you listened to both... is there a huge difference?

 
Jack said:
Check out member mep(Mark Pearson's) review for PFO as he has owned both and still has the Ref 6.

https://positive-feedback.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/audio-research-ref-6-preamplifier/
Click to expand...

Jack-I appreciate you bringing it up. I highly recommend the OP read the first part of the review that I wrote which goes into more detail about the difference between the Ref 5SE and the Ref 6. You can read it here:

https://positive-feedback.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/audio-research-ref-6-line-stage/
 
I want to thank you both for the reviews they were incredibly helpful! Still think I need to try and listen to both and I should be pulling the trigger on something soon.
 
Apparently the ARC Ref 5 wasn't a huge step up in terms of quality and performance but the SE was a huge leap forward. With that it's going to be an expensive leap. I really don't like that they are constantly making small upgrades between products (12 to 24 months) and if they weren't such good products I would probably be complaining more. Have you looked at the used market yet? Regardless, of what you choose, you're going to get a solid model... and I'm sure you already know that since you are sticking with Audio Research.
 
If you buy the Ref 5, Ref 5 SE or the Ref 6, you will probably be happy. It sounds like you really want to take the jump to the 6. Think about it this way, it may make a huge improvement in your system. If money is not an issue, why not go for a bigger upgrade?
 
If you're considering the 5, you should look into the SE. Other than some design changes (make the preamp look more polished), ARC improved on performance as well. I've heard from many that itlives up to the reputation and is many steps above the 5. Bold, rich anddynamic are words I've heard used to describe the ARC 5 SE and apparently itdoes exceptionally well with acoustic music. If you're still going back andforth, see if you can demo one before you commit.
 
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