Audio Research LS25 Mk II Stereo Tube Preamplifier

Product: Audio Research LS25 Mk II Stereo Tube Preamplifier

Product SKU: 15674

Serial Number: 92101403

Voltage: 120V

Cosmetic Description: 8/10 Excellent condition with minimal visible cosmetic wear including circular marks on the top cover near each corner, a light scuff on the top left edge of the chassis and a small scratch on the top cover right near the front edge. This item shows some wear consistent with its age but is still presentable and sounds wonderful. The unit has an odor of tobacco.

What is Included: Preamplifier, 2 Russian 6H30 tubes, Power cable

Functional Notes: Operational condition of this item is excellent, fully tested and no issues found.

Age: Circa 1999

# of Owners: 1

Tobacco Exposure: Yes

Service History: None

MSRP: $4995

Other Notes: "Because it already has so many useful control functions, the LS25MKII remains almost entirely unchanged in its exterior configuration -- meaning original units can be updated at the factory to the MKII spec. Inside, however, you will find a new motherboard architecture that incorporates a JFET input stage similar to that used in the VTM200, followed by a cathode-follower / output driver stage using two 6H30 twin triodes.

The 6H30 is a new tube for Audio Research ideally suited to its function in the LS25MKII. It is a Russian military tube in current production and use, and is rated by its manufacturer to have an estimated service life of up to 10,000 hours. It has shown highly stable and consistent in its operating characteristics. While its pin configuration is similar to the 6922, it is not a direct replacement. It has higher current requirements for the heater filaments, so it requires a different power transformer than used in the original LS25, as well as power supply adjustments.

Finally, like the VTM200, the LS25MKII also incorporates a rear-panel 12V on/off trigger for even easier incorporation into audio-video installations, or simply for installations where the customer wants more convenient system control. This is the only external modification to the original. You will see this feature appear on future models from Audio Research as well.

In performance, we believe the LS25MKII blows by the original in every respect. It is faster, more dynamic, more open-sounding and presents a more tightly focused soundstage. Bass response is cleaner, quicker, with more apparent impact, while high frequencies are much purer sounding than the original. You will love the coherence of the new MKII -- vividly alive from top to bottom, with an immediacy that is stunning when driving really capable power amplifiers like the VTM200's!" - Audio Research

Manual

Reviews:  User Reviews

Shipping: Cost to ship this item within the contiguous United States is a flat rate of $37- including packaging and insurance. For all other locations including Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Alaska, please request a quote prior to purchase. Items with factory packaging will be double boxed. When factory packaging not available re-usable shipping box with custom injected-foam mold will be used. (for all items over 10 lbs). Note that all items valued over $500 will require a signature upon delivery.