Audio Research Reference 6SE Line-Stage Preamplifier

Audio Research has a long history of leading preamplifier design, beginning with the acclaimed SP3 in 1973 and continuing with its Reference Series introduced in 1995. The Reference 6SE builds on this legacy, incorporating innovations from prior models and power amplifiers. It delivers immediate sonic improvements with dynamic, detailed, and dimensional sound, combining speed, clarity, and rich tonal texture. Its deep bass extension reveals performance often missing in lesser systems, unlocking the full potential of amplifiers and speakers. The 6SE is considered a foundational component for achieving a truly high-end, world-class audio experience.

Frequency Response: +0-3dB, 0.4Hz to 200kHz at rated output
(Balanced, 200k ohms load)

Distortion: Less than .01% at 2V RMS BAL output

Gain: Main output: 12dB Balanced output, 6dB SE output
Record out: 0dB (Processor input: 0dB BAL output)

Input Impedance: 120K ohms Balanced, 60K ohms SE
Inputs: 4 balanced, 4 single-ended
Assignable processor passthrough

Output Impedance: 600 ohms Balanced, 300 ohms SE Main (2)
20K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance. Outputs (3): 2 main, 1 record out (XLR and RCA connectors).

Output Polarity: Non-inverting

Maximum Input: 18V RMS BAL, 9V RMS SE

Rated Outputs: 2V RMS (1V RMS SE) into 200K ohm balanced load (maximum balanced output capability is 70V RMS at less than 0.5% THD at 1kHz)

Crosstalk: -88dB or better at 1kHz and 10 kHz

Controls: Rotary encoders: Volume (103 steps), Select Input.
Push Buttons:  Power, Menu, Enter, Mono, Invert, Mute

Power Supplies: Electronically regulated low and high voltage supplies.  Automatic 45 sec. warm-up/ brown-out mute. Line regulation better than .01%.

Noise: 1.7uV RMS residual IHF weighted balanced equivalent input noise with volume at 1 (109dB below 2V RMS output.)

Tube Complement: (6)-6H30P dual triodes, plus (1 each) 6550WE
and 6H30P in power supply

Power Requirements: 100-135VAC 60Hz (200-250VAC 50/60Hz) 130 watts.  Standby: 2 watts.

Dimensions:

Width: 19” (48 cm)

Height: 7.8” (19.8 cm)

Depth: 16.5” (41.9 cm)

Handles extend 1.6” (4 cm) forward of the front panel.

Weight: 37.5 lbs. (17 kg) Net; 49 lbs. (22.3 kg) Shipping