AUDIO RESEARCH UPGRADES REFERENCE SERIES

Audio Research has upgraded its Reference Series amplifiers to use the new KT-150 output valve, so the Reference 250SE (250-watts per channel), Reference 150SE (150-watts per channel) and Reference 75SE (75-watts per channel) all now use KT-150s. ‘But not satisfied with merely changing output tubes, Audio Research decided to also include substantial performance upgrades in the Reference amplifiers to coincide with the changeover to the KT150,’ said Philip Sawyer, of Synergy Audio Visual which distributes Audio Research in Australia. ‘The resulting active and passive parts changes in the SE amplifiers have resulted in dramatic sonic improvements. Simply put, the new SE versions are better in every way: purity and lack of grain, resolution, micro- and macro-dynamics, separation and instrumental focus, phase and time coherence, and greatly improved bass weight, authority and control.’ The KT-150 valve offers higher plate dissipation, higher current capability, more power and a longer lifespan than the power output tubes in common use (KT-66, KT-88, KT-120 etc). Warren Gehl, of Audio Research, who evaluated the valve prior to it being used in the Reference Series, told Australian Hi-Fi Magazine: ‘ We have been very impressed with its performance and longevity. Versus the KT 120 tube, which it most closely resembles sonically, the KT 150 imparts a greater sense of foundation, solidity and authority from the midrange on down much like having a more powerful amplifier on tap. There is a sense of ease and headroom handling the music that brings out very low level dynamic nuances as well as newfound intensity on high level climaxes which build more dramatically. The sound is full and rich, yet transient response is superbly fast and extremely pure, with the most grain-free and lifelike resolution and transparency. The octave to octave tonal balance is spot on, with improved focus, image stability and sound staging dimensionality compared directly against the same amp with KT 120s. It’s holographic and supremely musical in ways reminiscent of the harmonic aspects of the best triode tubes.’ Old Reference 75, 150, and 250 amplifiers can be fully upgraded to include all SE enhancements using upgrade kits, which will cost $5,000 for the 75, $9,000 for the 150 and $8,000 for the 250. Prices for the new models are $15,995 (REF75SE), $22,995 (REF150SE) and $25, 995 (REF250SE). For further information, please contact Synergy Audio Visual on (03) 9459 7474 or visit the website at www.synergyaudio.com