News

—Sardinia, Italy, July 28th: Plymouth, Minnesota-based Audio Research introduced to its dealers and distributors at WOM (World of McIntosh) Convention its new lower priced Foundation line of tube electronics. The three pieces were on static display at the Munich High End Show, but here they played in a system with a pair of Sonus Faber Il Cremonese speakers.

The new line currently includes the LS28 line preamplifier, PH9 phono preamplifier, and DAC9 D/A converter. A new stereo amplifier will follow. All of these pieces, as well as soon to be introduced stereo amplifier, will be priced at $7500 (ish) according to an ARC representative.

Inside and out, these products resemble the far more expensive Reference series. Audio Research has brought down the cost by in some cases, limiting features (for instance the PH9 includes only RIAA equalization instead of the choices offered on the more expensive Ref Phono 3). Another way ARC saves money is by eliminating the side panels found on the Reference series. instead the covers are fold over designs.

However, these are fully balanced all-tube designs that appear to be more similar to than different from the more costly Reference Series.

ARC says the LS28 line stage is now shipping, the PH9 will ship in July, the DAC9 in August, while the new amplifier is slated for fall or fourth quarter delivery.