The Audio Research Reference Two (Ref Two) is one of those pieces of gear that audiophiles mention with a certain reverence, a preamplifier designed to be a high-end benchmark in the world of tube-based audio gear. The Ref Two is part of Audio Research's elite Reference Series, which aims to deliver the absolute best in sonic performance. This isn't just a preamp; it’s an audiophile statement piece that makes your system the centerpiece of your music experience. If you’ve ever wondered what “reference-level” really means in audio, the Ref Two is here to give you a masterclass in what perfection sounds like.
At the heart of the Ref Two is a quartet of 6922 super tubes, a highly regarded tube design known for its incredible durability and sonic purity. These tubes are what make the Ref Two sing, delivering the trademark warmth and richness that tube gear is known for, but with an added touch of clarity and speed that you don’t often get with typical tube designs.
The 6922 tubes are capable of handling complex musical passages with ease, allowing the Ref Two to deliver a level of detail and nuance that makes you want to rediscover your entire music collection. Vocals, acoustic instruments, and complex soundscapes come through with a lifelike quality, as if the performers are right there in your room. The result is a preamp that manages to balance musicality and precision, giving you the best of both worlds.
*Ships in the original factory box and includes the power cord and remote.
- Production
- 1998
- Condition
- 9/10
- Serial No.
- 89290018
- Orig. MSRP
- $9,995
- Restoration
- Tested all input and output connectors
- Tested all inputs
- Verified proper remote control operation
- Factory Specs
Vacuum-tube stereo preamplifier.
Frequency response: 15Hz-30kHz, ±1dB
Distortion (THD): 0.005% at 5V out
Maximum output: 25V at 1kHz
S/N Ratio: 90dB (Aux input, no ref. level given).
Dimensions: 15 5/8" W by 5" H x 12½ D.
- 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
- Since its introduction more than three years ago, the original REFERENCE 1 preamp has established itself around the world as a benchmark in line-stage design and sonic performance. And compared to other, more costly competitive designs, the REF1 was perceived to have higher value per dollar as well. That tradition of sonic leadership is advanced again with the introduction of the REFERENCE 2 line preamplifier, at $9995 U.S. MSRP. This is one of those rare products that when first heard, truly justifies the word breakthrough. The REFERENCE 2 represents that much of an advance over the REF1, by every important sonic standard. It's bigger, bolder, richer, better focused with greater delineation of inner detail than you,ve ever experienced. The dimensionality and, perhaps most importantly, the naturalness and dynamic immediacy take the listener inside the music in a thrilling, intimate way. Whatever music you play through the REF2 becomes more intuitively meaningful and comprehensible, with less of the electronic curtain that has been the plague of more conventional music reproduction components. This highest level of resolution and musicality has been accomplished in large measure by all-new audio and power supply circuits, incorporating tube rectification (via one 5AR4) and tube regulation (via one 6L6) of the power supply (also packed with the newest Infinicaps, and one 6922). Gain is provided by eight selected 6922 twin triodes, like the REF1. Redesigned toroid transformers also contribute to improved dynamics. Mechanically, the REF2 is almost identical to its predecessor, with one significant exception: the input selector now offers a unity-gain A-V processor pass-through, allowing easy incorporation into video systems for both stellar music performance and convenient gain control via the processor's master level control when desired. Now, you can easily have it all in one flexible system. Importantly, the REF2 circuit also effectively prevents any possibility of input-signal overload while preserving incredible sonic purity. Chassis configuration and size, front-panel controls (with the exception of the processor-input labeling) and rear-panel input / output configuration are identical to the REF1. A total of eight balanced and single-ended inputs are provided, plus two sets of main outputs and record out. In addition, all front-panel functions are accessible from the included remote control. Because of this mechanical similarity, REF1 owners will be able to upgrade their REF1 units to full REFERENCE 2 configuration, complete with new 3-Year Limited Warranty. This is not be an inexpensive update, as the original model is essentially taken apart, then reassembled using new audio and power supply boards, two new toroidal transformers, new front and rear panels, and all new vacuum tubes. MSRP of the factory upgrade is $4495, plus shipping to / from the factory (no field update kit available).
- Stock No.
- 8827028898013
The Audio Research Reference Two (Ref Two) is one of those pieces of gear that audiophiles mention with a certain reverence, a preamplifier designed to be a high-end benchmark in the world of tube-based audio gear. The Ref Two is part of Audio Research's elite Reference Series, which aims to deliver the absolute best in sonic performance. This isn't just a preamp; it’s an audiophile statement piece that makes your system the centerpiece of your music experience. If you’ve ever wondered what “reference-level” really means in audio, the Ref Two is here to give you a masterclass in what perfection sounds like.
At the heart of the Ref Two is a quartet of 6922 super tubes, a highly regarded tube design known for its incredible durability and sonic purity. These tubes are what make the Ref Two sing, delivering the trademark warmth and richness that tube gear is known for, but with an added touch of clarity and speed that you don’t often get with typical tube designs.
The 6922 tubes are capable of handling complex musical passages with ease, allowing the Ref Two to deliver a level of detail and nuance that makes you want to rediscover your entire music collection. Vocals, acoustic instruments, and complex soundscapes come through with a lifelike quality, as if the performers are right there in your room. The result is a preamp that manages to balance musicality and precision, giving you the best of both worlds.
*Ships in the original factory box and includes the power cord and remote.
Production
1998
Condition
9/10
Serial No.
89290018
Orig. MSRP
$9,995
Restoration
- Tested all input and output connectors
- Tested all inputs
- Verified proper remote control operation
Factory Specs
Vacuum-tube stereo preamplifier.
Frequency response: 15Hz-30kHz, ±1dB
Distortion (THD): 0.005% at 5V out
Maximum output: 25V at 1kHz
S/N Ratio: 90dB (Aux input, no ref. level given).
Dimensions: 15 5/8" W by 5" H x 12½ D.
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 ]
Liner Notes
Since its introduction more than three years ago, the original REFERENCE 1 preamp has established itself around the world as a benchmark in line-stage design and sonic performance. And compared to other, more costly competitive designs, the REF1 was perceived to have higher value per dollar as well. That tradition of sonic leadership is advanced again with the introduction of the REFERENCE 2 line preamplifier, at $9995 U.S. MSRP. This is one of those rare products that when first heard, truly justifies the word breakthrough. The REFERENCE 2 represents that much of an advance over the REF1, by every important sonic standard. It's bigger, bolder, richer, better focused with greater delineation of inner detail than you,ve ever experienced. The dimensionality and, perhaps most importantly, the naturalness and dynamic immediacy take the listener inside the music in a thrilling, intimate way. Whatever music you play through the REF2 becomes more intuitively meaningful and comprehensible, with less of the electronic curtain that has been the plague of more conventional music reproduction components. This highest level of resolution and musicality has been accomplished in large measure by all-new audio and power supply circuits, incorporating tube rectification (via one 5AR4) and tube regulation (via one 6L6) of the power supply (also packed with the newest Infinicaps, and one 6922). Gain is provided by eight selected 6922 twin triodes, like the REF1. Redesigned toroid transformers also contribute to improved dynamics. Mechanically, the REF2 is almost identical to its predecessor, with one significant exception: the input selector now offers a unity-gain A-V processor pass-through, allowing easy incorporation into video systems for both stellar music performance and convenient gain control via the processor's master level control when desired. Now, you can easily have it all in one flexible system. Importantly, the REF2 circuit also effectively prevents any possibility of input-signal overload while preserving incredible sonic purity. Chassis configuration and size, front-panel controls (with the exception of the processor-input labeling) and rear-panel input / output configuration are identical to the REF1. A total of eight balanced and single-ended inputs are provided, plus two sets of main outputs and record out. In addition, all front-panel functions are accessible from the included remote control. Because of this mechanical similarity, REF1 owners will be able to upgrade their REF1 units to full REFERENCE 2 configuration, complete with new 3-Year Limited Warranty. This is not be an inexpensive update, as the original model is essentially taken apart, then reassembled using new audio and power supply boards, two new toroidal transformers, new front and rear panels, and all new vacuum tubes. MSRP of the factory upgrade is $4495, plus shipping to / from the factory (no field update kit available).
Stock No.
8827028898013
