Audio Research needed to have such preamplifier in their range. The performance of the REF Anniversary is still much better that that of the REF5 SE and often a top preamplifier is needed. Some dealers still had their demo Anniversary preamplifier, but could not use them in demos as it did not exist anymore for delivery. Can you imagine demoing a pair of REF750s with a REF5 SE while the Anniversary is hiding in the basement?
