Reference Sounds – Wilson Alexx V with Audio Research
The Audio Research Ref 6 SE preamplifier, hand-made in the USA using cherry-picked hand-selected parts.
As in the previous demo, the dCS Rossini SACD player is used as a source, along with the Rossini Master Clock, and with an HRS Damping Plate on top. This time, it outputs its signals to the Ref 6 SE preamp via Transparent Ultra Gen 6 balanced interlinks. The source components are all powered by a Transparent Gen 6 Reference Power Isolator, using Transparent Gen 6 premium power cables.
The Ref 160M mono power amplifiers, just like the Ref 6SE preamp and all other ARC components, 100% made in the USA.
Just look at these beauties – aren’t they positively lust-inducing?!
The Ref 160M mono power amplifier uses small transformers for the best transient behavior. The new KT170 tubes have been considered but for now, the best results were obtained with the KT150s.
Above: Ref 160M mono power amplifier with protective case (and fan) installed; below, the amp without its case, in which case the fan is not needed.
This is the brand-new, milled-from-aluminum remote control handset that will become a standard issue for the Ref 6SE, replacing the current plastic unit. For existing customers who purchased a unit up to 2 years ago, ARC will trade the plastic unit for the new metal version at no cost.
Next: Listening Impressions
