The Audio Research LS9 is one of those pieces of gear that might fly under the radar but deserves serious respect from any audiophile who’s looking for solid-state precision with a bit of that Audio Research magic sprinkled in. Known for its tube-based designs, Audio Research threw a curveball with the LS9, which is an all-solid-state line-stage preamplifier. But don’t be fooled—just because it doesn’t have glowing tubes doesn’t mean it’s not packing some serious sonic chops.
Production
1996-1998
Condition
9.5/10
Serial No.
37396004
Orig. MSRP
$1,995
Restoration
- Verified all inputs and outputs
- Installed new batteries in remote control
- Restored volume control function on remote
- Replaced feet
- Unit comes with original box
Factory Specs
Frequency response
±0.5dB 0.2Hz - 30kHz at rated output, -3dB below 0.1Hz and above 60kHz
Distortion (THD)
Less than 0.005% at 2V RMS balanced output
Noise & hum
20µV RMS residual IHF weighted noise output Bal with volume control set one step up from minimum (100dB below 2V RMS output).
Gain
Main output: 12dB. 6dB SE (optional 18dB Bal). Tape output: 0dB.
Input impedance
100K ohms Bal, 50K ohms SE,
Output impedance
500 ohms Bal. 250 ohms SE. 10K ohms minimum load and 1000pF capacitance
Maximum inputs
14V RMS maximum balanced, 7V RMS maximum SE.
Rated outputs
2V RMS into 100K ohms load Bal., 1V RMS into 50K ohms load SE . Maximum Bal. output capacity is 24V RMS at less than 1% THD (1kHz)
Power supplies
Electronically regulated complimentary voltage supplies using discrete components. Automatic 30 sec warm-up mute. Automatic trip sensor for low-line conditions (stable line resets automatic warm-up mute).
Power requirements
100-135VAC 60Hz (200-270VAC 50/60Hz) 20 watts maximum continuous. (There is no power switch)
Other
Inputs: Digital and Aux are Bal. Tuner, Video, Aux2 and Monitor are SE.Outputs (4): Main Bal. (2), Main SE (1) and Record SE (1).
Dimensions
19" (48 cm) W x 3½" (8.9 cm) H x 11" (28 cm) D. Handles extend 1.5 " (3.8 cm) forward of the front panel.
Weight
11 lbs. (5 kg) Net; 21 lbs. (9.6 kg) Shipping.
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...
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Liner Notes
The LS9 is an all-new, all-solid-state line level preamplifier which replaces the LS3/3B series. Using a low-voltage, pure Class A gain circuit with direct-coupled output (no coupling caps are used in the signal path), the LS9 yields 12dB of overall gain (factory adjustable to 18dB gain if necessary). Output capability is a substantial 24V RMS from the balanced main outputs. The LS9 also features complete IR remote control of all front panel functions, including a 70-step electronic relay volume attenuator and input selection. The LS9 offers two pairs of dedicated balanced inputs, three pairs of dedicated single-ended inputs; and a full tape monitor loop (single-ended in and out) is also provided.
The LS9 is designed to be left on continuously, drawing only 20 watts maximum continuous power. Housed in full-width 3½" high chassis, the LS9 is a model of slim elegance that will fit neatly into almost any conceivable cabinet or shelving system. Since it generates very little heat internally, it may safely be left behind closed doors when not in use.
Stock No.
8907254792413
