The Audio Research SP-4 is a vintage solid-state preamplifier that represented a departure for Audio Research in the late 1970s, as it was one of their first non-tube designs. Known primarily for their tube gear, Audio Research took a chance by venturing into solid-state territory with the SP-4. While it may not hold the same legendary status as their tube-based designs, the SP-4 was still a significant player during its time, offering the company's signature focus on sound quality and build precision.
- Production
- 1976-78
- Condition
- 9.5/10
- Serial No.
- 17002004
- Orig. MSRP
- $895
- Restoration
- Replaced shorted capacitors C46, C47, C48, C49
- Cleaned control contacts
- Tested all inputs
- This unit does not have the Head Amp input option
- Factory Specs
Frequency response: 5Hz to 100kHz
Total harmonic distortion: 0.005%
Gain: 36dB (MM), 24dB (line)
Signal to noise ratio: 84dB (MM), 95dB (line)
Output: 2V (Pre out), 10V (Pre out Max)
Dimensions: 480 x 210 x 89mm
Weight: 5.5kg
- 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 SP-4 preamplifier was designed around the Analog Module which acts as a 'super tube' because it takes the best qualities we see in the vacuum tube much closer to the theoretical ideal. The SP-4 surpasses our vacuum tube preamplifier in the most important areas. It has increased musical depth and definition with a smoothness that will satisfy any vacuum tube enthusiast.
- Packing
- Prepare to be impressed. We have arguably the best packing process around. We use our InstaPak machine and white open cell foam to build a custom enclosure for your piece that ensures that it's stable and secure. If it is particularly fragile or heavy, we typically opt for private courier delivery. Depending on where you are in the country, that may cost a bit extra.
- Shipping
- This piece ships to the contiguous United States for a flat rate of $175, which includes our packaging and our insurance. Of course, we'll ship anywhere in the world, just drop us a line and we'll give you an estimate – even if you're just curious.
- Stock No.
- 8799853347037
The Audio Research SP-4 is a vintage solid-state preamplifier that represented a departure for Audio Research in the late 1970s, as it was one of their first non-tube designs. Known primarily for their tube gear, Audio Research took a chance by venturing into solid-state territory with the SP-4. While it may not hold the same legendary status as their tube-based designs, the SP-4 was still a significant player during its time, offering the company's signature focus on sound quality and build precision.
Production
1976-78
Condition
9.5/10
Serial No.
17002004
Orig. MSRP
$895
Restoration
- Replaced shorted capacitors C46, C47, C48, C49
- Cleaned control contacts
- Tested all inputs
- This unit does not have the Head Amp input option
Factory Specs
Frequency response: 5Hz to 100kHz
Total harmonic distortion: 0.005%
Gain: 36dB (MM), 24dB (line)
Signal to noise ratio: 84dB (MM), 95dB (line)
Output: 2V (Pre out), 10V (Pre out Max)
Dimensions: 480 x 210 x 89mm
Weight: 5.5kg
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
The SP-4 preamplifier was designed around the Analog Module which acts as a 'super tube' because it takes the best qualities we see in the vacuum tube much closer to the theoretical ideal. The SP-4 surpasses our vacuum tube preamplifier in the most important areas. It has increased musical depth and definition with a smoothness that will satisfy any vacuum tube enthusiast.
Packing
Prepare to be impressed. We have arguably the best packing process around. We use our InstaPak machine and white open cell foam to build a custom enclosure for your piece that ensures that it's stable and secure. If it is particularly fragile or heavy, we typically opt for private courier delivery. Depending on where you are in the country, that may cost a bit extra.
Shipping
This piece ships to the contiguous United States for a flat rate of $175, which includes our packaging and our insurance. Of course, we'll ship anywhere in the world, just drop us a line and we'll give you an estimate – even if you're just curious.
Stock No.
8799853347037
