I have run into Audio Research components sounding a little thin in the past. They don't have that classic tube sound and thread kind of a fine line between solid state. I think it may really depends on what the LS27 is paired with. The Rogue has more of a tube sound if I remember, so it might be a really nice match with that type of amp. With my Ref 110 though it sounded a bit thin. There is normally synergy in an all ARC system from around the same period. But forget the thin sound for a moment. The Ref 5se does everything that the LS27 does really well even better. It is just in a different league. I also think that having tubes in the power supply can really make a difference. The Ref 5se is a real gem for what it is selling for used.
I did not have my Sonus Faber speakers at that time. I had electrostats which were a little less forgiving. I also have a Fosgate signature and it is a really sweet phono stage.
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