Audio Research Reference 5SE - Vacuum Tube Preamplifier

When Audio Research built the Reference 1 preamp it was the very best preamplifier they could build with currently available technology. Over the years as better components became available successive models improved on performance, opening up new world of realism in audio systems.  The REF 5SE's sound and ability to peel back the layer of music is very close to the current 6SE which now retails for $22,500.  Even at half of that price the 5SE would be a fantastic steal as it has the same DNA and signature transparency and revealing emotional impact.

If you're ready to hear your music open up, come to life and be completely revealed more than ever before you owe it to yourself to experience the Ref 5SE. Read the reviews and see what you're missing.

This unit was acquired from a local client who loved his gear with great care. Lets just say this unit is indiscernible from a brand new unit. 

The original remote, manual, box / packing and certificate of inspection are included. You won't find a cleaner and nicer REF 5SE preamp. Total tube hours is 500.

FEATURES:

• Tubed preamplifier with six sets of balanced and unbalanced inputs
• Three sets of balanced and unbalanced outputs
• Unity-gain Processor input (Home theater bypass)
• Tube complement: 6550C and 6H30P (power-supply regulation)
• Four 6H30P (dual triodes).
• Frequency response: 0.2Hz–200kHz, +0/–3dB, at rated output (balanced, 200k ohms load).
• Maximum voltage gain, main output (single-ended or balanced input): 12dB, balanced output; 6dB, single-ended output.
• Distortion: <0.01% at 2V RMS, balanced output.
• Input impedance: 120k ohms balanced, 60k ohms single-ended.
• Output impedance: 600 ohms balanced, 300 ohms single-ended main, 20k ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance.
• Output polarity: non-inverting.
• Maximum input: 20V RMS maximum balanced, 10V RMS single-ended.
• Rated output: 2V RMS (1V RMS single-ended) into 200k ohm balanced load (maximum balanced output capability is 30V RMS at <0.5% THD at 1kHz).
• Noise: 1.7µV RMS residual IHF-weighted balanced noise output with volume control at "1" (109dB below 2V RMS output).
• Power consumption: standby, 2W; full output, 130W.
• Dimensions: 19" (485mm) W by 7" (178mm) H by 15.5" (394mm) D. Handles extend 1.5" (38mm) forward of front panel.
• Weight: 30.4 lbs (13.9kg) net, 41.6 lbs (19kg) shipping