Audio Research Introduces Foundation Series

[lschoonaert]

Whoa a tube based DAC!!! How sweet!

[JBT]

I wonder if it's the same DAC they have in the CD9??

[Lars-Ola]

I wasn't sold on the Ref 6 look immediately, but now I think the 6 and Phono 3, as well as these, look absolutely great together.

I'm very pleased that they've (re)introduced a line below the Reference. And the name Foundation Series, to me, perfectly sums up what it's about. Great choice.

And then there's the consistency within the series: solid state power supply and tube-based, 6h30p's in the "heart of the analog circuit" as they say.

While this isn't exactly entry level, I do believe ARC will benefit from having an upgrade path with products at different price levels.

This is great news! Looking forward to more Foundation Series components.

[JBT]

I just talked to my ARC dealer and he said everything including the amp will be 7500.

[triode12]

Originally Posted by Alki

To me the pre does not look as good as the phone stage and DAC. I guess it is the knobs that I do not care for. Same thing I did not like on the Ref 6. I would agree with you about coming around. My opinion is not as harsh as it once was.

I'm with you. I dislike the looks of the new knobs.

[cleeds]

I'm warming up to the new look. The Ref 6 in black looks beautiful, and I think these Foundation series components would, too.

[1adam12]

Originally Posted by JBT

I wonder if it's the same DAC they have in the CD9??

Or maybe something similar to the GSi75 since it does DSD?

[JBT]

Originally Posted by 1adam12

Or maybe something similar to the GSi75 since it does DSD?

Makes sense !! DAC in the GSi75 is supposed to be ARCs best yet!!

[guitardave]

I would bet that anyone complaining about the looks of the new Ref6 have not heard it in their system. Once heard, you won't care how it looks! It isn't just a little improvement. It is truly a game changer.

[rscotth]

Originally Posted by guitardave

I would bet that anyone complaining about the looks of the new Ref6 have not heard it in their system. Once heard, you won't care how it looks! It isn't just a little improvement. It is truly a game changer.

+1