Audio Research Reference 160S
Best high fidelity sound for discerning audiophiles seeking ultimate musicality.
This stereo powerhouse brings the visceral, tube-driven soul of high-end audio into a single, manageable chassis. While you sacrifice the modular flexibility of monoblocks, you gain an incredibly quiet, refined soundstage that makes the complexity of vacuum tube maintenance feel like an afterthought.
$20000.00
at
Stereophile
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking ultimate musical immersion and lifelike sound reproduction
- Discerning listeners who appreciate fine-tuning their audio experience
- Enthusiasts valuing top-tier build quality and sophisticated design
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers or those new to high-end audio
- Owners preferring maintenance-free audio components
- Listeners with limited space or those sensitive to heat output
Performance breakdown
Sonic Resolution
Delivers breathtaking clarity that reveals the finest textures in every recording.
Dynamic Impact
Effortlessly handles massive orchestral swells with authority and punchy transient response.
Tube Maintenance
Proprietary auto-bias circuitry removes the typical headache of manual tube management.
Build Integrity
A heavy-duty, four-layer circuit design ensures long-term stability and silent operation.
Operational Versatility
Switchable modes allow you to tailor the sound signature to your preference.
Visual Aesthetic
The iconic GhostMeters provide a stunning, modern centerpiece for any high-end system.
Key Specs
Power Output
140 watts continuous from 20Hz to 20kHz
1kHz Total Harmonic Distortion
typically 1% at 140 watts, below 0.04% at 1 watt
Frequency Response
-3dB points at 1 watt 0.5Hz to 110kHz
Input Sensitivity
2.4V RMS Balanced for rated output
Input Impedance
300k ohms Balanced; 100k ohms Single-ended
Output Taps
4, 8, 16 ohms
Amplifier Class
Class A (Triode, Ultralinear)
Speaker Impedance
4, 8, 16 ohms
Dimensions
19.0” (48.26 cm) W x 10.25” (26 cm) H x 21.5” (54.61 cm) D (24” (60.96 cm) with handles and connectors)
Weight
100 lbs
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