Audio Research Reference 160S Power Amplifier
Best stereo amplifier for audiophiles seeking pure, tube-driven musicality.
This stereo powerhouse brings the legendary resolution of high-end monoblocks into a single, visually arresting chassis. While the massive tube array requires a dedicated rack and careful management, the trade-off is an immersive, liquid musicality that few solid-state designs can ever hope to replicate.
$12999.95
at
Audioadvisors
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking customizable sound profiles for diverse speaker setups
- Owners wanting simplified maintenance and longer tube longevity
- Design enthusiasts prioritizing premium build quality and visual impact
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking high-end performance on a modest budget
- Users with limited space or poor ventilation in their listening rooms
- Buyers wary of the recurring costs associated with high-performance tubes
Performance breakdown
Sonic Resolution
Eight KT150 tubes deliver breathtaking clarity and nuanced musical detail.
Dynamic Impact
Effortless power handling ensures authoritative control over demanding speaker loads.
Operational Flexibility
Switchable Triode and Ultralinear modes tailor the sound to your preference.
Maintenance Ease
Proprietary auto-bias circuitry removes the headache of manual tube calibration.
Build Integrity
Robust construction and premium components define this high-end audio centerpiece.
Background Quietness
Advanced four-layer circuit board design creates a remarkably silent noise floor.
Key Specs
Power Output
140 watts continuous from 20Hz to 20kHz
Frequency Response
0.5Hz to 110kHz (-3dB points at 1 watt)
Input Impedance
300k ohms Balanced; 100k ohms Single-ended
Output Taps
4, 8, 16 ohms
Tube Complement
8 x KT150 output tubes, 4 x 6H30 tubes
Power Requirements
105-130VAC 60Hz
Dimensions
19.0” W x 10.25” H x 21.5” D (24” D with handles and connectors)
Weight
100 lbs
Total Harmonic Distortion
Typically 1% at 140 watts
Cooling
Fan (High/Low setting)
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