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The Reference 80S stereo amplifier continues Audio Research’s latest design effort in creating a vacuum-tube amplifier that not only redefines ultimate music reproduction, but does it in an incredibly beautiful package.  Outwardly, the 80S shares the same dimensions as the 160M. A single shallow whisper fan is built into the bottom plate. Flexibility is built-in, too, with XLR an...[more]

The DAC9 digital-to-analog converter decodes most current formats with state-of-the-art vacuum tube technology. Five digital connections - USB, RCA, BNC, AES/EBU, and Toslink - provide connectivity to all of your digital sources. Quad DAC architecture provides a balanced digital signal, wide dynamic range, and decoding resolutions from red book CD up to 384 kHz and native DSD sampling rates. A ...[more]

The I/50 is designed to be easy to use, and has three controls on its top panel - Power, Input, and Volume. Two LexieTubes® provide display information for input selection and volume. Two matched pairs of 6550WE vacuum tubes, along with three 6922 tubes, stand in front of the perforated transformer cover. Three single-ended inputs and one XLR input provide connectivity for most systems, alo...[more]

The improvements in the LS28SE stem from what was learned during the creation of Audio Research’s Reference 160-series amplifiers. Very similar to the wire and parts changes incorporated in the REF6SE and REF PH3SE, the LS28SE also includes upgrading to the same proprietary gold coupling caps used in the REF6SE. These numerous and costly component upgrades elevate the LS28SE’s perfo...[more]

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Foundation PH9 Phono Preamplifier The PH9 phono preamplifier is a great pairing with most cartridge and turntable combinations. A trio of 6H30 vacuum tubes are at the core of a simple and clear signal path to provide the most transparent preamplification possible. Five different impedance settings allow for cartridge loading, which can be changed on the fly with the included metal rem...[more]

The left side of the front panel contains a 7” (diagonal) interactive touch-screen display that allows the user to easily control almost all functions. After the initial turn-on sequence, the Volume, Input, Balanced/SE, Stereo/Mono, Phase 0/180, Balance (leftright) control, Mute/Operate, and Settings icon are clearly displayed. Touch the input displayed (such as Tuner), and all of the inputs...[more]

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Listening to Reference 750 SEL monoblocks in a high performance system is a transformative experience; under total control, speakers disappear from the listening room and the listener is transported into a three-dimensional realm where music takes on a palpable, tangible form. Details from source material are resolved against a black background, painting images in space with vivid reality. Bass...[more]

REFERENCE 75 SE VACUUM TUBE STEREO POWER AMPLIFIER, 75 WATTS The Reference 75 SE is a stunning amplifier in every way – performance, styling and reliability combined to elevate your music listening to a new experience.  Capable of controlling a wide variety of speakers, the Reference 75 SE will transport you into the musical performance unlike any other comparable amplifier. A...[more]

Outwardly, the 80S shares the same dimensions as the 160M. A single shallow whisper fan is built into the bottom plate. Flexibility is built-in, too, with XLR and SE inputs, 4-8-16 ohm output taps, 12V input and output triggers, RS232 input, tube hour meter, switchable fan speeds, and defeatable auto-off function. The feature set is the same as the 160S, including a proprietary auto-bias ci...[more]

REFERENCE PHONO 10 PHONO PREAMPLIFIER Vinyl record playback has been an integral part of Audio Research since our founding in 1970. Think back to the great phono stages built into the defining preamplifiers of their day, among them the SP3, SP6, SP8, SP10, and SP11. Even after the introduction of the compact disc in 1982, phono sections remained a revered part of our preamplifiers. The firs...[more]

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Reference 160M Vacuum tube Monaural power amplifier After two years in development, the new Reference 160M (REF160M) Monoblock Power Amplifier is built like no other, looks like no other, and sounds like no other amplifier that you have ever heard, but it is unmistakably Audio Research. It features a refined audio topology with fewer and better components in the signal-path than in pr...[more]

The big change from the VT80 to the new VT80SE is upgrading the KT120 tubes to the higher performance KT150 output tubes. Everyone should know that we have been deeply enamored with the KT150 as we feature it in all of our other amplifiers, from the VSi75 to the REF 750SE. Its performance is unparalleled and its 3,000 hour average life allows years of uninterrupted listening. The VT80 was origi...[more]

The Model 100.2 stereo power amplifier sets new standards in musicality and value against all other competitors at or near its price. Rated conservatively at 100 WPC into 8 ohms, the 100.2 produces 200 WPC into 4 ohms and a hefty 360 WPC into 2 ohms -- giving it sufficient drive to handle a wide variety of todayÂÂÂÂ’s leading loudspeakers. Both single-ended and bal...[more]

The 150.2 produces a strong 150 WPC into 8 ohms, and 300 WPC into 4 ohms. BAL and SE inputs are provided, along with a 12V trigger and detachable A.C. power cord. Like the 150M, the 150.2 produces very little heat because of its high efficiency, so it is ideal for in-cabinet installations. Handles are optional at additional cost, as on the 150M. Musically, the 150.2 is very much like the remark...[more]

The market for multichannel power amplifiers is crowded, competitive and compromised. Most conventional designs have shortcomings in terms of size, heat, or, most importantly, sonic performance. Audio Research has waited to enter this market until the technology to break through these compromises was fully developed. That time has come.The 150M is unlike any previous amplifier design you have seen...[more]

The Audio Research CD6 utilizes quad 24-bit DACs running in mono mode, with dual master oscillators for highest performance; one for 44.1/88.2/176.4 sample rates, the other for 48/96/192kHz sample rates. Sample rate conversion is selectable for all inputs, allowing playback in native resolution or via upsampling, including compact disc and USB. Additionally, there is a selectable digital filter...[more]

The CD3 will not play back DVD video, DVD audio or SACD-only discs because it is our firm belief that the convenience of multi-format playback sacrifices sonic performance in the CD format. And, most customers and music lovers have extensive CD-based collections that continue to grow, so the priority on playback quality in this format, in our view, is eminently justified.While using the latest 24/...[more]

The CD3 has been a remarkable success since its introduction two years ago, clearly demonstrating how much musical information is buried in compact discs. In the face of emerging formats, the CD3 has proved that the billions of redbook discs in circulation remain vital in high resolution music systems. So why change such a good thing? Because the MKII retains the inherent musicality of the origina...[more]

Like the CD3 MK II the CD5 relies on the substantial Philips PRO2M laser mechanism with Audio ResearchÂ’s proprietary mounting system and damping for ultra-low mechanical jitter. New high-performance circuit board material and an all-new FET direct-coupled analog output stage with beefy regulated supplies yield better performance thatÂ’s measurable: channel separation is improved from 92dB to 120d...[more]

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With the advent of the CD5 and DAC7 in 2008, they knew that the DAC used in our Reference player needed a newer, higher-resolution version. (The new 24-bit, 192-kHz chipset is not retrofittable to the CD7.) And, their engineers found a way to physically incorporate the same power-supply regulation used in the Reference 3, using a single 6550C to replace two 6H30 triodes, giving better performance ...[more]

With the growth of the iTunes culture and the increasing popularity of storing music on a hard drive, Audio Research were asked repeatedly to offer a USB DAC that could connect with Macs, PCs and servers to deliver a new benchmark in high resolution digital music playback. Audio Research listened, and after more than a year in development we are excited to introduce the DAC7 digital-to-analog conv...[more]

The PH6 is a hybrid phono stage with a low-noise, high-gain JFET input stage with constant current stabilization and no overall feedback. Unlike its predecessors, the PH6 incorporates two high current 6H30 twin triodes in the gain and output stages; you can expect over 4,000 hours from the PH6’s tube set. Total gain is 58dB, more than sufficient for low output moving coil cartridges when ...[more]

Housed in a chassis the same size as the DSi200 integrated, the DS225 continues the design hallmarks of the DS450. Audio Research’s proprietary Class D all discrete analog switching mosfet output technology is again combined with a large, linear analog power supply, yielding tremendous speed and power delivery, but doing so with cool-running efficiency, idling at only 38 watts. The DS225 is ...[more]

The power supply is a classic linear, analog supply, heavily regulated and scaled up to provide explosive dynamics and impact. Its 1239 joules of energy storage are twice that found in the DSi200. Dynamic power is 900 watts into 8 ohms, 1800 into 4 ohms, and 2800 into 2 ohms, meaning the DS450 can control those big, tough-to-drive speaker systems. The output stage is a high-speed pulse-width modul...[more]

There are several reasons to choose the DS450M over its stereo counterpart. The most important is performance-based: a monaural amp simply produces a bigger, more spacious stage by virtue of the channels being totally isolated. Also, we were able to fit a much larger , power supply in the chassis. Then there is the issue of size: the DS450M is smaller and easier to situate than the hefty DS450 ste...[more]

The Definition Series of amplifiers represents an unusual type of "solid-state hybrid" design in which a massive, highly regulated, linear analog power supply is combined with a truly "green" discrete analog switching-MOSFET output stage for highly efficient power conversion and low power consumption. The analog power supply and all-discrete MOSFET output stage are pure Audio Research expressions ...[more]

Like the DAC8, the DSPre offers the following:• Five digital inputs, including USB 2.0HS, AES/EBU, RCA, BNC, andToslink®, all of which are capable of decoding 24 bit/192k files.• Asynchronous USB.• Utilizes quad “monoblock DAC” architecture with dual low jitter mastercrystal oscillators to eliminate decoding and quantization errors, increasethe dynamic range, and ...[more]

GS150 POWER AMPLIFIER An amplifier is the workhorse of any system – it is responsible for receiving small signals from a preamplifier or source component, and developing them into larger currents to control a loudspeaker. To that end, the GS150 has been designed to seamlessly integrate into any system and steadfastly perform its task. Challenging source material and difficult sp...[more]

A preamplifier, amplifier, phono stage, and digital to analog converter all in one chassis, the GSi75 combines with your favorite speaker to deliver a singular and simple solution to control your listening system. Unlike other integrated designs that make performance - sacrificing compromises to fulfill a price point or form factor, the GSi75 harnesses the power and technologies developed by...[more]

GSPre PREAMPLIFIER The GSPre is the nerve center of a system – not only directing signals and providing attenuation, but also interpreting and deciphering complex signals to create a musical story with the drama and intrigue befitting your favorite songs. The job of a preamplifier is to do its work discretely, leaving the musical signal with as little signature as possible ...[more]

We call it "Hybrid Drive" because that’s how it works.  As in the REF110, a JFET input (for low noise) feeds a 6922 dual triode gain stage, which in turn feeds a 6H30 dual triode cathode follower which drives the outputs through our proprietary coupling capacitors (first used in our REF3 preamp).  This vacuum-tube input/driver arrangement sets the stage for superbly musical perform...[more]

The LP1 is a departure for us in both size and series designation. The chassis is a compact 13” wide, by 8.6” deep, by 4.5” high. The front panel has the inset Audio Research logo with an engraved line completing the panel, but no handles.  There are simply two switches for Power/Off and Mute/Operate. The entire chassis is silver, and the front panel is only available in Nat...[more]

The LP1 has 47dB of gain, perfect for higher output (>1.0mV) phono cartridges. It is a hybrid design utilizing one 6H30 tube, special low noise JFETs, custom Audio Research designed power transformer (made in the U.S.), and multiple stages of regulation. There is no overall feedback, and it is non-inverting.  Inputs and outputs are single-ended. Controls are as simple with switches for Pow...[more]

Building on our thirty year tradition of designing electronics of the highest quality and value, Audio Research is pleased and very excited to introduce the LS12 stereo preamplifier, which bridges the usual gulf between solid-state and vacuum-tube sound, sonically outperforming the competition anywhere near its retail price.   The LS12 represents a major advance in solid-state circuit design ...[more]

Since its introduction in 1999, the LS16 has been a best-seller, combining a relaxed, engaging musicality with good flexibility and connection options. So why change a good thing? Well, the enhancements introduced in the Mark II versions of both the Reference 2 and LS25 have proven so popular that we feel it is time to incorporate many of the same technological improvements into the LS16MKII.Funct...[more]

On the front panel, the changes are more obvious. A new linear LED display provides a 20-lamp display for the 104-step volume control, as well as indicators for selected input and muting. One rotary control is provided for volume adjustment, while a second controls input select. Pushbuttons are provided for power, monitor, processor (unity gain) and mute. All functions are also accessible via the ...[more]

The LS17 SE maintains the same physical size as its predecessor.  The only cosmetic difference is the updated front panel which replaces the black plastic buttons with round metal buttons, complementing the symmetry of the two control knobs flanking the LED display.  The display shows volume as well as which input is selected.  Front panel controls include power, monitor, mute and p...[more]

The LS25 MKII vacuum tube stereo line preamplifier offers sonic performance, functional flexibility and value second only to the world-renowned Reference One preamplifier. Chassis construction is like the REF1, with finished slab sides and heavy top and bottom covers; chassis height and depth are slightly reduced, however. Front-panel control layout is also familiar: microprocessor-controlled r...[more]

The LS27 not only offers remarkable resolution, musicality and dynamic impact, it is Audio Research's most flexible line-stage and able to adapt to most any situation. In terms of control options, the LS27 has selectable High / Medium / Low gain settings for each input, BAL / SE input selection, Left-Right Balance control, Invert (phase), and Stereo / Mono selection. Tube hours can be monitored, t...[more]

LS28 Line Stage Preamplifier The LS28 line stage is a flexible and intuitive preamplifier. Four balanced and four single-ended inputs, and two sets of both balanced and single-ended outputs, allow maximum connectivity. The straightforward menu allows control of numerous parameters, including input naming, tube hours, auto shutdown, and home theater passthrough. Phase invert and mono a...[more]

The new LS8 MKII is a pure Class-A circuit design with a large, fully-regulated power supply and is hand-assembled to the same critical standards as other Audio Research products. MKII component improvements include new regulator FET devices, higher-quality resistors, new Infinicap(r) coupling capacitors and our latest selected 6922 twin triode vacuum tubes. Mechanically, the MKII incorporates new...[more]

The PH3 is a phono preamplification stage intended for use with an active line-level stereo preamplifier. Fully single-ended from input to output, the PH3 uses a combination of J-FET input stage technology (for low inherent circuit noise) and class A operation vacuum-tube gain via three 6922 twin triodes. Total gain of the PH3 is 54 dB (non-adjustable). Used with typical line preamplifiers...[more]

The PH3 is a phono preamplification stage intended for use with an active line-level stereo preamplifier. Fully single-ended from input to output, the PH3 uses a combination of J-FET input stage technology (for low inherent circuit noise) and class A operation vacuum-tube gain via three 6922 twin triodes. Total gain of the PH3 is 54 dB (non-adjustable). Used with typical line preamplifiers having ...[more]

The choices of the load are 47K, 1000, 500, 200 or 100 ohms. All functions are duplicated on the remote control. The rear panel includes a pair of single-ended inputs, a ground, and a 15A IEC connector. The PH6 is a hybrid (like PH5), with high-gain JFET input constant current and stadiuo stabilization without any counter-reaction. The PH6 uses four 6H30 twin triodes. Instead of replacin...[more]

The PH7 has 57.5 dB of overall gain, and features one pair of single-ended inputs and outputs. Full remote control is provided for all functions, coupled to an easily readable front-panel vacuum-fluorescent display. The display shows all selected functions including loading (47K, 1K, 500, 200, 100 ohms), as well as accumulated hours of operation. Display intensity can be adjusted to one of eight l...[more]

Operationally, the PH8 maintains the flexibility and ease of operation of its predecessor, with loading (47K, 1K, 500, 200, 100 ohms), Stereo/Mono, Muting andPower buttons under a vacuum fluorescent display that has eight selectable brightness levels. The display can be turned off, with nine small pixels remaining dimly lit to remind one that the supplied remote control. There is one set of single...[more]

The Audio Research Reference Phono 10 embodies everything we know about phono playback, and incorporates many of the insights gained in the development of the Reference Anniversary and Reference 10 line-stage preamplifiers. The Audio Research Reference Phono 10 is a true dual-mono design with totally separate signal paths for each channel, from the dual-mono power supply forward. There are sepa...[more]

Simply put, the REF150 SE is a breakthrough in stereo power amplification.  Replacing the REF150—which was one of the most respected modern stereo amplifiers—was a daunting task, but it has been accomplished.  The REF150 SE offers more power, greater dynamic thrust, a more vivid and resolved presentation, greater finesse, and quieter operation.  It is the new benchmar...[more]

The Reference 210 presents a familiar yet distinctive appearance. The chassis is enclosed, with a thick front panel the same height and width as the VT100/VTM200, but with a vacuum-flourescent display screen like the one featured on the REF3 and REF610T. The chassis is 19.5" deep (plus handles) and has an internal frame like the 150M, with a one-piece ventilated cover that wraps around the top and...[more]

The concept of a large monoblock amplifier is to provide control to a speaker.  The difficult part of the job is maintaining finesse and musicality while doing it.  Audio Research has produced some of the most critically acclaimed products during its 42-year history and the new Reference 250 SE aims to break new ground. From the moment the music begins, the foundation of an ex...[more]

Introduced in the spring of 1998, the REF2 received a continuous stream of accolades from around the world. True to its name, it became the reference line-stage preamplifier, purchased new by a thousand music lovers and coveted by thousands more. With the MKII version having been introduced in 2000, it is time to push the performance envelope once again. We are proud to introduce the all new RE...[more]

The REF300 monoblocks have created as much of a stir among audiophiles and music lovers as the larger REF600s did when first introduced in late 1995. Well, we're happy to announce that REF300 owners now have good reason to be excited all over again with the introduction of the new and improved REF300MKII First, the sonic improvements embodied in the MKII version are nothing short of monumental...[more]

The REF 5 is the latest model in a series of the finest and most successful line-stage preamplifiers ever made. From the REF1 to the REF2 to the REF3 to the REF5, each one has built upon the legacy of its predecessor as the most sought-after reference level line-stage preamplifier. The REF5 clearly redefines the state of the art at a price that is not inexpensive but represents extraordinary value...[more]

Concept The Reference Series from Audio Research was first introduced in 1995 and has been the ultimate representation of performance, musicality and power. Beginning with the Reference 1, the Reference 6 now continues the tradition of using the most refined circuit designs in concert with the highest quality parts and components. Numerous elements – transformers, capacitors...[more]

Following upon the technical changes that have been so successfully received in the MKII version of the REF300 monoblocks, similar changes have now been made to the design of the REF600 model. The resulting improvement in sonic performance is, if anything, even more dramatic in the 600-watt flagship model. As in the REF300, the REF600MKIII has been refitted with new audio and power-supply circu...[more]

When the Reference 600 Power Amplifier was introduced in 1995 it set a new standard for High Definition® in music reproduction. In every meaningful category, the Reference 600 - 300 amplifier series remained at the pinnacle of audiophile performance. Now the REF600-300 legacy continues with a new flagship from Audio Research: the Reference 610T monoblock.     Like its pr...[more]

The Reference 750 SE monoblock amplifier continues the story begun 20 years ago with the introduction of the Reference 600; that is, to create the ultimate, tube-driven amplifier with enough power to drive any speaker load and to provide a musical experience unlike any before it. The Reference 750 SE redefines all expectations of what is possible from an amplifier in a music playback system....[more]

Bound to become an "Audio Legend", truly remarkable.Ricardo FranassoviciIn April of 1970 Audio Research was founded as the sole American manufacturer of exclusively vacuum-tube preamplifiers and power amplifiers. Along the way, many Audio Research models became benchmarks and collectors’ items as the company steadily built a reputation for great performance and great value. It was never...[more]

Incorporating the strongest aspects of the CD3MKII - its rugged construction, the Philips Pro2 laser mechanism, the Crystal 24-bit DAC, its user-friendly menu of useful features and functions - the REF-CD7 breaks new ground with a gain stage taken directly from the REF3, incorporating the latest proprietary capacitor technology found only in Audio Research Reference components. Using four 6H30 tri...[more]

The experience begins with the intuitive graphic interface, guiding the user easily through input selection and the appropriate menus to begin music playback With nine different ways to connect, plus a built-in internet radio tuner, virtually all digital sources in your system are connectable to the Reference DAC. Inputs providing metadata will allow track and album information to be displayed....[more]

The REF Phono stage is an all-vacuum-tube design.  Of the 14-tube total, eleven 6922 twin triodes are used in a unique single-ended signal path. High voltage rectification utilizes a 5AR4 / GZ34, while regulation is accomplished using a 6L6GC controlled by another 6922.  For the analog music purist, this is the phono stage to make everyone happy!  Using chassis construction and dime...[more]

The Audio Research Reference Phono 2 SE offers an extensive feature set. There are two separate sets of inputs, with selectable gain between Low (51dB BAL / 45dB SE) and High (74dB BAL / 68dB SE). There are seven loading selections including 47K, 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50 ohms, and Custom, which we can factory-set according to your need. In addition to standard RIAA phono equalization, the Reference...[more]

Audio Research founder William Z. Johnson was never one to follow popular trends; Audio Research began building vacuum tube components as transistors were replacing tubes for their low cost and simple maintenance. But the fact remained that vacuum tubes simply sounded better. Digital technologies arrived in the mid-1980’s, and offered a level of convenience and low maintenance...[more]

Physically, the Reference Phono 2 is similar to the other Reference preamplifiers, with slab side panels, a vacuum-fluorescent display, and the same height and depth as its predecessors. The front panel has six control buttons for Power, Input, Gain, Load, RIAA and Mute. New silver handles are standard on natural-anodized units, while black handles come with black-anodized units. For owners wan...[more]

The thick front panel simply has an On/Off switch and corresponding LED and does not contain the vacuum-fluorescent display found on its more powerful siblings.  The attractive internal layout is similar in appearance to the REF210 with the right and left channel boards mounted horizontally, flanking the transformers mounted on a raised central channel running front-to-back. A small LCD displ...[more]

When Introduced i, the REF110 power amplifier proved to be one of the most respected and popular stereo power amps ever produced by Audio Research. Now it is superseded by the new REF150, offering more power, more sonic finesse, quieter operation and a more contemporary appearance. Having identical outer dimensions as the REF110, the new REF150 has much more packed into its chassis. Refined fro...[more]

The ebb and flow of a bass line, percussive textures, and time changes now make more musical sense as you hear them revealed by the greater immediacy and dynamic freedom of the REF2MKII. Finally, the MKII presents the music with a solidity and focus and coherence that is simply not present to the same degree in the original. From top to bottom, then, the REF2MKII is a another advance of the state ...[more]

First, you will notice a more modern, monochromatic appearance, including a new front panel with a small aluminum power button: natural units include silver handles and top cover, while black units come with black panel, handles and top cover. A new analog meter replaces the vacuum-fluorescent digital display of its predecessor; this illuminated meter is capable of displaying power output, line...[more]

Introduced in May and June 2009, the REF5 and REF Phono 2 are sufficiently mature to warrant an update.   Beginning immediately, the REF5 and REF Phono 2 (RP2 for brevity) are being updated to SE status, with greatly enhanced performance and the latest cosmetics. Non-SE versions will no longer be available. The upgrades are applicable to both REF5SE and RP2SE. The most obvious change is to...[more]

The REF75 is a great looking amplifier, slightly reminiscent of our older classic designs.  The front panel has two illuminated analog power/bias meters, one for each channel.  Under each meter is a knob to switch from power output to bias monitoring for each output tube.  Bias adjustment points are accessed from the front panel, too, offering real convenience.  The outer di...[more]

The appearance is more refined and attractive, but is clearly a statement piece from Audio Research. A new, optional 12V fan-cooled silver top cover is available at additional cost.   Using the now-standard KT120 output tubes (8 matched pairs, driven by another matched pair) in the classic Audio Research push-pull Class AB output stage, the input stage has been streamlined, using very low ...[more]

The REF CD9 incorporates four digital inputs: asynchronous USB 2.0HS, AES/EBU, RCA and Toslink. All inputs handle 24-bit/192kHz resolution. As you would expect, the REF CD9 retains the Philips PRO2R transport, still the best dedicated CD mechanism available. It is simply unsurpassed for compact disc playback. Benefitting from what was learned in the development of the Audio Research REF DAC and th...[more]

Like the larger HD220, the new SD135 ("SD" for "Silicon Drive") uses Thermal TrakŽ self-biasing output devices in a Class A-B design. And like the HD220, it accommodates either single-ended or balanced inputs. But unlike the larger hybrid, the SD135 features an all-solid-state input stage using multiple JFET devices in each channel, directly driving the output stage – no interstage coupling capa...[more]

The power cord is our standard removable IEC. The most important control functions of the SP16, including Power, Mute, Processor, Input select, and Volume Up/Down, are accessible on the right side of the front panel via six soft-touch buttons. On the left side of the front panel (mirroring the control function cutout on the right) is an LED display indicating Input, Processor, Mono, and Mute, with...[more]

The SP16 is completely single-ended with five sets of inputs (labeled Phono, CD, Tuner, Video and Aux) plus a Processor pass-through. There are two sets of main outputs for flexibility, plus a Tape out. The SP16 has a 12-volt trigger to turn on power amplifiers or other equipment, and full remote control of all functions including power, input selection, stereo/mono, volume, and muting. The powe...[more]

The Audio Research SP17 features low-noise JFET inputs in both the line- and phono-stages, and instead of 12AX7s you will find a 6H30 in each section – all of our preamplifiers now employ this high performance long-life tube. The same high-voltage regulator found in the LS17 and LS26 is now utilized in the  Audio Research SP17, and so is the same 103-step volume control – the SP16...[more]

Also for the first time, the Input selector is on the left, the Volume control is on the right.Through the touchscreen one can change Inputs, select Stereo or Mono, Mute, adjust Phase, adjust left-right Balance, and adjust the phono input Load (50, 100, 500, 1000 or 47k Ohms). Through a Settings menu, you can customize other items: change input names, adjust gain offset for each input, change volu...[more]

Its purpose is to provide the differential signal for true balanced operation, a first for this series. With both balanced and single-ended inputs (switch selected), the VM220 will be compatible with every Audio Research preamplifier. In addition, the VM220 uses a super-wide-bandwidth output transformer to provide better frequency extension, explosive musical dynamics, and more powerful bass ex...[more]

The chassis, circuit layout and feature set of the VS110 are almost identical to the VS55, but scaled up to accomodate the greater power output. The chassis itself measures 17 1/2" W by 19" D, and features an anodized, natural-finish top plate labeled with tube location/type, output-tube bias access points and the inset Audio Research logo. The chassis front holds a rocker-style power switch and g...[more]

The VS115 revisits the classic look of the VS110 with its open architecture and natural anodized top plate – now more ventilated for better heat dissipation. Drawing upon the successful REF110 input stage design, the VS115 uses a FET input with two 6H30 triodes in each channel for gain and as a cathode follower-driver for the 6550C-equipped output stage. This allows both balanced and single-ended...[more]

The VS55 makes a wonderful companion to the recently introduced SP16 preamplifier. Together, these exciting new companion products enable you to assemble a true Audio Research music system at a more reasonable cost. Like the SP16, the VS55 represents a fresh, new design direction for Audio Research. Using an open (rather than fully enclosed) chassis architecture, the VS55 features a milled, anodiz...[more]

Its rated output of 50 watts per channel does not convey the VS60's ability to drive power-hungry, low-impedance loudspeakers. Audio Research designed the VS60 with the finest full-range speakers, not compact monitors. Dynamics are lifelike with a sense of ease normally associated with larger amplifiers. Yes, its resolving power is surprising, allowing you to hear details that were previously hidd...[more]

With an unbeatable combination of great sound, cool packaging and affordable pricing, the VS55 and VS110 amplifiers have been garnering rave reviews and enjoying brisk sales around the world. We are very pleased to inform you of an addition to the series, the VSi55 Integrated Amplifier. With a rated output of 50 watts per channel and a reasonable price, a remarkable level of performance, build qu...[more]

Its rated output of 50 watts per channel does not convey the VSi60's ability to drive power-hungry, low-impedance loudspeakers. Audio Research designed the VSi60 with the finest full-range speakers, not compact monitors. Dynamics are lifelike with a sense of ease normally associated with larger amplifiers. Yes, its resolving power is surprising, allowing you to hear details that were previously hi...[more]

The VSi75 integrated amplifier breaks new ground in an ‘all in one’ product design, and sets a new benchmark in the lifelike reproduction of music. The VSi75 continues the design series of ‘open chassis’ products from Audio Research such as the VSi60 and VS115, yet incorporates new developments from the Reference series product to combine in a visually striking and so...[more]

Absolute Sounds is pleased to introduce the VT80 vacuum-tube power amplifier to its Foundation Series. From the same design and engineering team responsible for the award-winning Reference Series, the VT80 allows the Foundation Series to be shown as a complete system. Combining an enticing new aesthetic with worry-free operation and great performance, the VT80 is a vacuum-tube amplifier tha...[more]

Since the spring of 1996 the VT100 established itself as the benchmark amplifier in its price range. Accolades from the press and music lovers grew even louder with the 1998 introduction of the MKII because of its improved dynamic swing, more refined performance, and ability to drive so many "difficult" loudspeakers which normally could not be used with other vacuum-tube amplifiers. Well, the VT10...[more]

The VT200 vacuum tube stereo power amplifier is the most powerful of the three VT-series models. Rated at 200 watts per channel into a wide range of speaker loads, the VT200 encompasses a "dual mono" circuit layout reaching back to the massive single power transformer. Eight matched pair of 6650C output tubes and 674 joules of distributed energy storage give the VT200 unwavering control over the m...[more]

Based on the same circuit design as the VT100 and VT200, the VT50 features a dual-mono circuit layout reaching back to the large power transformer. Two matched pair of 6550-C tubes provide the output (one pair each channel), while four 6922 twin triodes serve as input and driver tubes (two each channel). Constant-current source technology (as used in the Reference Series) help maintain output stag...[more]

The Valve VTM200 vacuum tube stereo power amplifier is the most powerful of the three Valve-series models. Rated at 200 watts per channel into a wide range of speaker loads, the Valve VTM200 encompasses a "dual mono" circuit layout reaching back to the massive single power transformer. Eight matched pair of 6650C output tubes and 674 joules of distributed energy storage give the Valve VTM200 unwav...[more]