ref3 limited

[phunge]

Just upgraded from ls26 to ref3 limited -- Wow!!!!! what an amazing piece.

First thing I noticed is how completely silent it is. Cranked the volume up all the way and heard nothing. Even inches from my tweeter only the very faintest hiss.

Next add some music, which has tremendous weight and dynamics and depth, on top of that black background...... sublime...

Notice some little things too:

• balance at low volume is spot on, ls26 was shifted slightly left until about 6 on the volume scale
• Operates much hotter
• More sensitive to being warmed up first
• Does not seem to have as many relay clicks when muting, changing inputs, etc.
• Screen is huge and much brighter -- too bright sometimes, need to turn it down late at night
• Thicker faceplate

According to arcdb:

REFERENCE 3 LIMITED EDITION (2009)
The last approximately two dozen REFERENCE 3 preamps built was designated "Limited Edition". It has several unique cosmetic and performance enhancements. Cosmetically, there are natural metallic-finish handles to match the natural anodized Limited Edition front panel (black not available). In addition, the words "Limited Edition" is printed directly below the Audio Research logo on the front panel. Under the cover are higher-performance proprietary output coupling caps that boost the performance of the Limited Edition beyond that of the original version.

Haven't had it long, but I am really enjoying it!

[audio badger]

Congrats on the new ARC piece! Can you post some pics for us?

[MPS]

ARC really hit the bullseye with REF3. Btw I normally keep display off so it's not bothering me ;-)

[Bavarian05]

Welcome to AA!

Nice pick up! That is not an easy piece to come by. That is definitely a keeper.
I have the regular Ref 3 and love it. Congrats and enjoy it.

[phunge]

Thanks guys, I am really enjoying it!

here is a picture of it in my rack:

I kinda wish it had the black handles, like my dac. I may move it to the top, to give it more breathing room.


here is a wide shot of the room:

[cmalak]

phunge...very nice room and setup. Ref 3 (regular) user here for past 7 years. Love mine! Enjoy the Ltd edition

Which Focal Utopia model are you running? Other equipment apart from Ref 3 and what looks like the DAC 8? Is the Ayre the C-5xeMP? Can't tell what the amps are and the equipm on the second rack

[jdandy]

phunge.......What a super looking setup. Very nice.

[phunge]

Thanks guys! it's a great place to relax, and unwind after a long day.

i created a new thread in the member system forum with more details on my equipment.

[jax4736]

I recognize the Ayre C-5xeMP.

[Bavarian05]

Beautiful room!

You can easily swap out the silver handles for black ones from ARC. They are not very costly either.
Just hold onto the silver ones to replace again if you ever decide to sell it on. Nice system!