Serge.......I have admired Audio Research for a long time. Even as a serious McIntosh fan, I have lusted after more than one ARC component through the years, particularly their preamplifiers and tube amplifiers.
Providing there are no budget constraints on the two channel system, my suggestion is to fully immerse yourself in the very best ARC has to offer. My suggestions are as follows:
> Reference Anniversary Edition Preamplifier
> Reference Phono 2
> Reference CD8
> Dac 8
> Reference 210 Power amplifier (unless only the Reference 610 will do)
As for cosmetics, the black faces are attractive, but I believe the ARC components really strut their stuff in natural brushed finish. As a complete system of ARC components, the natural finish makes a powerful visual impression, and a striking statement of audio authority.
Oh, scrap the Sopia 3 idea, and return to the beloved Sasha.
__________________
Dan
STUDIO - McIntosh C1000C/P, MC2301 (2), MR88, Aurender N10, Esoteric K-01X, Shunyata Sigma spdif digital cable, Sonos Connect, PurePower 2000, Stillpoints, Furutech Flux 50, Michell Gyro SE, Michell HR Power Supply, SME 309, Ortofon Cadenza Black, Wireworld, Sonus faber Amati Anniversario
LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable, Micro Seiki DD40, Ortofon Cadenza Blue, Nakamichi BX-300, Sony 60ES DAT, PS Audio P10, Furutech Flux 50, Sonos Connect, Stillpoints, Wireworld, Kimber, PMC EB1i, JL Audio f113
VINTAGE - McIntosh MA230, Tandberg 3011A tuner, Olive 04HD, Sony DTC-59ES DAT, McIntosh 4300V, JBL 4312A
Last edited by jdandy; 10-05-2010 at 02:06 PM.
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