Audio Research Reference 5 SE Pre-Amplifier (Line Stage)

Hi, Here is my wonderful sounding ARC Ref 5SE. Going up from my previous ARC Ref 3, this was a large improvement in all areas of sound quality that you can think of. It was fully re-tubed on 30th May 2026 at a cost of £450, and has just 265 Hours on the tubes (see photo). The four main output tubes were all matched together, as can be seen on the boxes, as this is recommended by ARC. Tube life is said to be 4000hrs for best sound quality, so lots of life left.

The only reason for selling is that my friend has finally decided to sell his Pass Labs XP-32, and although it has no tubes, it sounded very tube like when I tried it last year.

This comes with the original (double)box and packaging (which alone weighs 5kg!), Remote and Owners Manual. It also comes with the (no cost)optional steel cover. The Plexiglas cover is standard on all SE models, and ARC say it makes an improvement in sound quality.

I would prefer collection due to weight (c17kgs) and high value; but I will ship for free if you pay over £5.25k, otherwise it will be c£75 which includes insurance.