My first Audio Research!

[2fastdriving]

Originally Posted by SL1800

I have actually heard the Ref5 pre with a MC452 vs the C220 with the same MC452 and the Ref5 is way ahead of the C220. Is the C2300 way better than a C220? I don't know but I like it enough that I bought the C2300 that was Marc's. The Ref5 is just out of my budget.

I don't know anything about the c220 but the C2300 is a great preamp. The ref5 cost twice as much, but it certainly isn't twice as good. It's better, but it isn't night and day better. I suggest you start a new thread in the Mc forum or PM Dan aka jdandy for his very experienced opinion on that specific comparison.