Audio Research's New Stereo Preamplifier
 

Audio Research's new SP20 tube stereo preamplifier ($9000) combines a full-function linestage and phono stage, and includes a hi-resolution tube-driven headphone output, touchscreen control, remote control, and both balanced and single-ended inputs and outputs. The front panel echoes the Minnesotan company's fabled SP3 preamps from the 1970s. Listening to the company's first preamp in 20 years to include both a linestage and phonostage via Sonus faber Olympica III loudspeakers, I heard both the classic Audio Research midrange and a fast response that served bebop extremely well. Bob Reina is working on an SP20 review for Stereophile.


Audio Research's New Stereo Preamplifier | Stereophile.com

I borrowed one for a week. Didn't like the front display and controls - it is extremely frustrating. When you turn the selector knob, you can feel detents behind it, but nothing happens until you go past like 10 clicks, and then the display is sluggish.

Great sound, poor user experience.

Touch screen?? No way!! Trying to be too fancy.

+1

JBT.......Sorry, but I can't get past that homely face. No way would I place that in any of my racks. Audio Research makes some fabulous gear but this component is a complete turn off for me.


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I am a huge ARC preamp fan but agree that this looks homely. Not sure what type of look they are going for but this does not work for me personally. Maybe they are trying to gain new customers with a refreshed look and think that the existing loyalists will continue to buy their products based on reputation.

Dan, I have an ARC system in the game room and it is great!!! But this is a step too far IMO!!

I agree - ARC makes great traditional serious looking and functioning gear. Leave touch displays etc for Apple.

That is really funny since the Ref 10 has a touch display.

I miss the old ARC look too. Not a fan of the touch screen, but I do love the sound on the Ref 10 preamp. Love that classic look on the Reference Anniversary Preamp though. One of my friends has one.