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Audio Research Ref 2 Mk 1 - $4,200 (Houston)
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Find a review of the REF 2 here.
Notably better than the Reference 1, which was also equipped with 6922 tubes but with a transistor power supply. It differs significantly from subsequent models that adopted the 6H30 tube. It may be less transparent than a Reference 5 or 6, but for me, it's much more musical.
A truly great preamp, quite rare. From the MKII version onward, Audio Research used the 6H30 tube, making it an object that will not lose its value.
This unit, in perfect condition with remote control, has been serviced by an authorized Audio Research center, which certified it as original. It is equipped with relatively new tubes (less than 150 hours). Original box included, but can be shipped in reinforced packaging.
Specifications:
Frequency Response: REF2: +0 -3dB 0.5Hz to 60kHz at rated output.
Thickness Distortion (THD): REF2: Less than 0.015% at 2V RMS Balanced output
Gain: REF2: Main output: 18dB Balanced, 12dB Single Ended output. Tape output: 0dB. (Processor input: 0dB Balanced. Aux 1 input: 13dB Balanced.)
Input Impedance: 132K ohms Balanced, 66K ohms Single Ended.
Output Impedance: 400 ohms Balanced, 200 ohms Single Ended main (2), 20K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance.
MAXIMUM INPUTS: 14V RMS maximum Balanced,
RATED OUTPUTS: REF2: 2V RMS (1V RMS SE) into 100K ohm balanced load (maximum balanced output capability is 30V RMS at less than 0.5% THD at 1kHz).
Tubes: (8) 6922/E88CC plus (1 each) 5AR4, 6L6GC, and 6922 in power supply.
Inputs: (8): tape, tuner, phono, CD, video, aux 1, aux 2, processor, (XLR and RCA connectors). Outputs (3): 2 main, 1 tape (XLR and RCA connectors). Controls: Gain (125 steps), Balance, Select Record, Select Input. Toggle switches: Power/Off, SE/Balanced Input, Invert/Normal, Mute/Operate.
Dimensions: 48cm W x 17.8cm H x 39.4cm D.
Weight: 14.2 Kg, package 20 Kg