New SS 450wpc power amp from Audio Research partnered with SF speakers at CES 2010...

[cmalak]

looks interesting. The folks at The Audio Beat compare its sound to the ARC 100.2 SS classic offering, albeit with a lot more power than that model. An interesting alternative from ARC for speakers that present a difficult load to partnering amps: The Audio Beat - CES & THE Show 2010 - Hot Product - Audio Research DS450

[PHC1]

Interesting. I used to own an ARC 100.2 amp. Great little amp but the MC501s edged it out of my system with their more liquid midrange. I'd like to hear this new DS450 though.

[cmalak]

Serge...I am going to ask my dealer if he is getting these in. As happy as I am with my Ref 110s, I think my Thiel 2.4s (and ultimately Rockport Miras which I plan to upgrade to) would benefit from more power. If I get to audition them, I will certainly report back and let you know what I think.

[Still-One]

That new ARC intergrated has been getting some good press lately. It is their take on switching amps.

DSi200 Integrated Stereo Amplifier, Audio Research

[cmalak]

Hey Jim...I believe TAS is coming out with a review of the DSi200 in their March issue. Here's a blog on AVGuide.com by Neil Gader who will be doing the full review on the DSi200:Update: The Audio Research DSi200 integrated amplifier | AVguide. The DS450 is based on the same amplifier design as the DSi200 but in a stereo power amp configuration.

[PHC1]

Interesting. Linear power supply but a mosfet switching output stage...

"It combines a hefty analog, linear power supply with a discrete MOSFET-based switching output stage of ARC’s own design. Terry Dorn of ARC describes it as a different kind of “hybrid” that uses a regulated analog power supply with a high-speed switching output stage— but all solid-state. And the DSi200 does not rely on any OEM modules or pre-manufactured components such as those found in designs from other “Class D” manufacturers."

[Uberbrown]

I really like the body being a matching color as the face.

[cmalak]

it's missing a blue meter or two . I am waiting patiently for this bad boy to go into production and for my dealer to get it in his shop so I can listen to it. I will let you all know what it sounds like, especially as compared to their Reference tube amps.

[AeroSmith]

Waiting for mine to break in....... 600 hours they say and I'm only 24 in. I can safely say this beast has a lot more low end balls than the two Ayre MX-Rs I traded for it. But it definitely has a lot of warming up to do.

[jdandy]

AeroSmith.......You have a beautiful system set up in a most attractive manner.

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