Audio Research Reference 2 Phono Preamplifier

Jeff Dorgay has posted a review of the Audio Research Reference 2 phono preamplifier ($11,995) in the latest issue of TONEAudio. His conclusions:

The ARC REF Phono 2 has renewed my love for analog, plain and simple. It has all the qualities I value in a phono preamp: a stunningly low noise floor, massive dynamics and tonal realism in spades. And it is extremely easy to change gain and loading, making it an excellent tool for evaluating cartridges, as well as being a complete blast to listen to. Agreat side benefit of having the REF 2 in my system is that the 24/192 captures I've been producing have been better than ever, so this phono preamplifier has had a positive impact on the digital side of my system as well.

If you are shopping for a statement phono preamplifier, I can't think of a better choice than the ARC REF Phono. Considering some of the other choices in the $15,000-$25,000 range, it's actually quitea value, which is why we have given itour Product of the Year award in the analog category. I'm truly happy to be this excited about analog again.

You can read the full review here. Jump to page 74.