The Audio Research LS2 is a line-stage preamplifier that encapsulates the essence of Audio Research's commitment to high-fidelity sound, blending tube warmth with modern precision. Introduced in the early 1990s, the LS2 is part of Audio Research's long-standing tradition of building world-class preamplifiers that offer transparency, dynamics, and musicality. Despite being a tube-based design, the LS2 is known for its hybrid approach, utilizing solid-state components to complement the tube's sonic characteristics, resulting in a well-balanced sound profile that appeals to both tube purists and those seeking accurate, refined sound.
*Includes original box
- Production
- 1991
- Condition
- 9.5/10
- Serial No.
- 33157015
- Orig. MSRP
- $2,495
- Factory Specs
Frequency response
± .5dB, 1Hz to 100Hz, -3dB points below 0.1Hz and above 300kHz
Distortion (THD)
Less than .01% at 2V RMS output (typically less than .005% in midband)
Noise & hum
20µV RMS residual 1HF weighted noise at main unbalanced output with gain at minimum (100dB below 2V RMS output). xxx Balanced input noise 100dB below 1V input.
Gain
LS2: Main Output: 18dB. Balanced output: 24dB. Tape output: 0dB (Optional 12dB gain reduction). LS2 MKII: Main Output: 18dB. Balanced output: 24dB. Tape output: 0dB (Optional 9dB gain reduction)
Input impedance
LS2: 50K ohms. LS2: 50K ohms unbalanced, 3 megaohm balanced.
Output impedance
LS2: 200 ohms main output. 500 ohms Balanced 1, Balanced 2 (10K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance). LS2 MKII: 200
Maximum inputs
LS2: 20V maximum. LS2 MKII: 20V maximum unbalanced, 8.5V maximum balanced.
Rated outputs
LS2: 2V RMS 1Hz to 100kHz into 60K ohm load (maximum output capability is 10V RMS (20V RMS balanced) output at 05% THD at 1kHz into a 10K ohm load). LS2 MKII: 2V RMS 1Hz to 100kHz into 60K ohm load (maximum output capability is 30V RMS (60V RMS balanced) output at 05% THD at 1kHz into a 10K ohm load)
Power supplies
Electronically-regulated low and high voltage supplies. Two transformers (toroid for high voltage). Line regulation better than .01%
Tube complement
LS2: (1) 6DJ8/ECC88. LS2 MKII: (1) 6922.
Power requirements
100-135VAC 60Hz (200-270VAC 50/60Hz) 60 watts maximum
Other
Hybrid FET/Tube audio circuit, solid-state power supply
Dimensions
19" (48 cm) W x 5 ¼" (13.4cm) H (standard rack panel) x 10 ¼" (26cm) D. Handles extend 1 ⅝" (4.1cm) forward of front panel. Rear chassis fittings extend ⅞" (2.3cm).
Weight
LS2: 13 lbs.Shipped 22lbs
- The History of Audio Research
- Audio Research Corporation, affectionately known to fans as ARC, was founded by William Z. Johnson, who began designing custom audio electronics in the early 1950’s and who also operated a specialty audio retail store until the mid-1960’s. Johnson’s efforts almost single-handedly revived vacuum-tube designs at a time...
[ Read More ]
- Stock No.
- 8817965629661
The Audio Research LS2 is a line-stage preamplifier that encapsulates the essence of Audio Research's commitment to high-fidelity sound, blending tube warmth with modern precision. Introduced in the early 1990s, the LS2 is part of Audio Research's long-standing tradition of building world-class preamplifiers that offer transparency, dynamics, and musicality. Despite being a tube-based design, the LS2 is known for its hybrid approach, utilizing solid-state components to complement the tube's sonic characteristics, resulting in a well-balanced sound profile that appeals to both tube purists and those seeking accurate, refined sound.
*Includes original box
Production
1991
Condition
9.5/10
Serial No.
33157015
Orig. MSRP
$2,495
Factory Specs
Frequency response
± .5dB, 1Hz to 100Hz, -3dB points below 0.1Hz and above 300kHz
Distortion (THD)
Less than .01% at 2V RMS output (typically less than .005% in midband)
Noise & hum
20µV RMS residual 1HF weighted noise at main unbalanced output with gain at minimum (100dB below 2V RMS output). xxx Balanced input noise 100dB below 1V input.
Gain
LS2: Main Output: 18dB. Balanced output: 24dB. Tape output: 0dB (Optional 12dB gain reduction). LS2 MKII: Main Output: 18dB. Balanced output: 24dB. Tape output: 0dB (Optional 9dB gain reduction)
Input impedance
LS2: 50K ohms. LS2: 50K ohms unbalanced, 3 megaohm balanced.
Output impedance
LS2: 200 ohms main output. 500 ohms Balanced 1, Balanced 2 (10K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance). LS2 MKII: 200
Maximum inputs
LS2: 20V maximum. LS2 MKII: 20V maximum unbalanced, 8.5V maximum balanced.
Rated outputs
LS2: 2V RMS 1Hz to 100kHz into 60K ohm load (maximum output capability is 10V RMS (20V RMS balanced) output at 05% THD at 1kHz into a 10K ohm load). LS2 MKII: 2V RMS 1Hz to 100kHz into 60K ohm load (maximum output capability is 30V RMS (60V RMS balanced) output at 05% THD at 1kHz into a 10K ohm load)
Power supplies
Electronically-regulated low and high voltage supplies. Two transformers (toroid for high voltage). Line regulation better than .01%
Tube complement
LS2: (1) 6DJ8/ECC88. LS2 MKII: (1) 6922.
Power requirements
100-135VAC 60Hz (200-270VAC 50/60Hz) 60 watts maximum
Other
Hybrid FET/Tube audio circuit, solid-state power supply
Dimensions
19" (48 cm) W x 5 ¼" (13.4cm) H (standard rack panel) x 10 ¼" (26cm) D. Handles extend 1 ⅝" (4.1cm) forward of front panel. Rear chassis fittings extend ⅞" (2.3cm).
Weight
LS2: 13 lbs.Shipped 22lbs
The History of Audio Research
Audio Research Corporation, affectionately known to fans as ARC, was founded by William Z. Johnson, who began designing custom audio electronics in the early 1950’s and who also operated a specialty audio retail store until the mid-1960’s. Johnson’s efforts almost single-handedly revived vacuum-tube designs at a time...
[ Read More ]
Stock No.
8817965629661
