Audio Research Ref 160M MkII, Tube Mono Blocks
The Evolution of the Ref 160Ms, the Ref 160M MkII have an upgraded audio topology with fewer and better components in the signal path. This means even less chance of corruption of the signal for a cleaner, more pure, more musical sound.
The difference is quite marked between the old and the new. The MkII version sounds more Audio Research than the previous model. Audio Reseach is all about purity of sound and getting to the real music of the recording without corruptions. That's why they are an all tube company now because they feel that tubes do this best. That's why the MkIIs are more Audio Research because they exhibit more clarity, more purity than the older version.
Like all Audio Research, these are handmade in Minnesotta, USA. From design to polish, it's all done in house with the utmost care and attention to detail. All in the pursuit of the ultimate musical experience.
Priced each.
Audio Research Ref 160M MkII, Tube Mono Blocks
After two years in development, the new Reference 160M MkII (REF 160M MkII) Monoblock Power Amplifier is built like no other, looks like no other, and sounds like no other amplifier that you have ever heard, but it is unmistakably Audio Research. It features a refined audio topology with fewer and better components in the signal-path than in previous designs, switchable Ultralinear/Triode operation, proprietary auto-bias, output tube monitoring and protection, an advanced power meter, and much more. This array of features has never been offered before in an Audio Research amplifier.
The designers at Audio Research wanted to create a new style that would complement the look of the REF6 preamp while also featuring a GhostMeter™ that allows a view of the glowing KT150 vacuum tubes. While this GhostMeter™ allows you to see the output tubes, it also incorporates an innovative dual-layer construction with distinctively etched markings that create an integrated power meter. The power meter’s output-level markings illuminate via hidden LEDs, and the illumination brightness is adjustable. The REF 160M MkII includes a sculpted cover with an integrated fan to cool the heat generated by the four (4) KT150 output tubes and two (2) 6H30 driver tubes. Solid-state power regulation was chosen to provide increased efficiency, stability, and reliability. The power supply stage uses a newly developed High Energy Capacity Transformer and a hefty bulk storage-capacity network to provide extremely high current on demand for transient peaks and intense dynamics, as well as for prodigious bass depth and authority.
It is understood that the best path is the shortest path. Audio Research engineers created a new audio circuit topology with the shortest signal path and the fewest components. Those components are not only the best available, many are custom made for Audio Research. Incorporating these quality components is a special 4-layer circuit board that lowers the noise floor to unprecedented levels, and a design which was previously reserved for use in our preamplifiers. The result is a new benchmark in musicality in every criterion of sound quality.
The REF 160M MkII also features a proprietary auto-bias circuit that works with various tubes types, including 6550, KT88, and KT120, in addition to the supplied KT150 and works constantly to maintain precise bias of the output tubes, while also adjusting for tube wear. There is no need to check or adjust bias ever again.
The new REF 160M MkII breaks new ground sonically, aesthetically and operationally, and are available in Natural (Silver) or Black finishes.
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We want you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. Items can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of delivery.
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