Results 101 to 150 of 204
Thread: Audio Research 160M
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July 2, 2018, 12:48 PM #101
Re: Audio Research 160M
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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July 2, 2018, 12:49 PM #102
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July 2, 2018, 12:49 PM #103
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July 2, 2018, 01:34 PM #104
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Re: Audio Research 160M
No worries, many thanks for clarifying.
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July 2, 2018, 01:58 PM #105
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- Jun 2013
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- 1,068
Re: Audio Research 160M
Oh my... due to the kindness of a fellow shark I was able to read the review, and it has done absolutely nothing to reduce this 'new amp chubby' I've been walking around with since I placed my order. My wife is embarrassed for me.
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July 2, 2018, 03:56 PM #106
Re: Audio Research 160M
Bob V
Just relax, you will soon be a loyal well disciplined card carrying ARC forum member.
Needless to say, after 2 years I am still on bronze level and you just jump to Gold level..
Enjoy
J
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July 13, 2018, 07:52 AM #107
Re: Audio Research 160M
Marty
Aurender N20 / SonicTransporter i7 / Roon
MSB Premier
Constellation Inspiration Preamp 1.0 / Mono 1.0
Dynaudio Confidence 50 / SVS SB13 Ultra
PS Audio Powerplant 15
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July 19, 2018, 10:40 AM #108
- Join Date
- Dec 2015
- Posts
- 7
Re: Audio Research 160M
Hi everyone,
there is a british audio store that has the HiFi News review of the 160M posted on the store's website. I tried to post a link but it wouldn't let me (i dont have enough posts yet). The name of the store is hifi lounge. If you google hifi lounge and audio research 160m you should be able to find it.Rockport Avior Speakers; ARC Ref 10 Pre-amp; ARC REF 75 SE amp/Boulder 2060 amp; Galibie Stelvio turntable with Kuzma 4Point tonearm and Van den Hul cartridge; Boulder 1008 phono stage; Ayre QA9 ADC; Light Harmonics Dual Dac; Nordost Frey 2 power cables and speaker cables; Nordost Heimdall 2 interconnects; Shunyata and Nordost power conditioning.
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July 19, 2018, 10:45 AM #109
Re: Audio Research 160M
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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July 19, 2018, 11:28 AM #110
Re: Audio Research 160M
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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July 19, 2018, 07:52 PM #111
Re: Audio Research 160M
Read Kessler's review, it was pretty good......
The 160's are a great refresh of the classic ARC design....
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July 23, 2018, 06:13 PM #112
- Join Date
- Jun 2013
- Posts
- 1,068
Re: Audio Research 160M
A question for Mike, having never owned mono-blocks, I am curious -- are they normally built as a pair, with the back panels mirror imaged, or do you receive two identical units? (has a slight impact on layout of power cords, speaker cables, interconnects)
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July 23, 2018, 07:12 PM #113
Re: Audio Research 160M
"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
--------------------------------------------
Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords
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July 23, 2018, 07:15 PM #114Buddy
Boulder 1160 Amp, 1110 Pre-Amp
Audio Research Ref. 3 Phono-Pre
Vivid Audio Giya G2S2 Speakers
MSB Reference DAC
Innuos Statement w/Next. Gen. PS
B & W DB1D Subwoofer X2
Audioquest Niagara 5000 Power Conditioner
Kronos Pro Turntable w/Kronoscope RS tonearm + SCPS-1 PS + MSL Platinum Cart.
VPI HW-40 Turntable w/ Lyra Etna cartridge
Jay's Audio CDT3-MK3 CD Transport
Schiit Mjolnir 2 HPA + Audeze LCD X headphones
Adona Equipment Rack and Amp Stands
Furutech Outlets and Plates + NCF Booster
Shunyata Cables
Synergistic Research Galileo SX Ground Block, FEQ 4, Ethernet Switch UEF, Black Box + Room Acoustic treatments
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July 23, 2018, 08:01 PM #115My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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July 23, 2018, 08:03 PM #116
- Join Date
- Jun 2013
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- 1,068
Re: Audio Research 160M
Thanks Ken & Buddy. Good to know.
Buddy, those amps must sound exceptionally good with the Avantgarde speakers. I'd only heard of the Avantgardes until last falls' RMAF where I got to hear some in person. I was a bit blown away how great a horn could sound as I think my last experience had to have been Klipsh Cornerhorns from back in the 70s.
Tell us more about how the 160s have changed your system vs. your previous amps.
And Ken... well, we know you're in sonic heaven with the MSB and your Vandies!
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July 23, 2018, 09:28 PM #117
Re: Audio Research 160M
Bob the 160’s do sound quite spectacular with the Avantgarde’s!
At first the cost of the amps and the fact that I do not need the amount of power they offer made me consider other options. But I could not get them out of my head after seeing them at Axpona this year. Honestly it was my wife that convinced me that they were the right way to go. Now nothing would tempt me to change to something else.
In triode mode in my system the sound reproduced is, in my opinion, simply sublime.
The ARC 160’s really offer a top to bottom sound that has no drawbacks. With the AG’s you will hear any changes in the system. Not that anything I have used sounds bad, but when it is right the end result is much closer to “real” and “live” than most speakers can convey.
The interesting thing is that most people assume they are bright or midrange forward and they are neither, but proper equipment/cable pairing is important.
The ARC 160’s wring out an even greater level of emotional connection and believability from everything I have listened to since owning them. Instruments are reproduced with placement and space in the soundstage that is quite amazing while really bringing out the texture and body of instruments and vocals. In my system the bass drivers are internally amplified, so the ARC’s are only feeding signal to the amp input. Also with 107 db sensitivity the output meters are usually quite sedentary!
Also worth mentioning that I have never heard Avantgarde’s sound great at a US audio show, but about 5 minutes at Mike’s and it was a forgone conclusion for me. As soon as they were connected in my room I knew there was no going back and the Ref. 160’s really make me love them even more.Buddy
Boulder 1160 Amp, 1110 Pre-Amp
Audio Research Ref. 3 Phono-Pre
Vivid Audio Giya G2S2 Speakers
MSB Reference DAC
Innuos Statement w/Next. Gen. PS
B & W DB1D Subwoofer X2
Audioquest Niagara 5000 Power Conditioner
Kronos Pro Turntable w/Kronoscope RS tonearm + SCPS-1 PS + MSL Platinum Cart.
VPI HW-40 Turntable w/ Lyra Etna cartridge
Jay's Audio CDT3-MK3 CD Transport
Schiit Mjolnir 2 HPA + Audeze LCD X headphones
Adona Equipment Rack and Amp Stands
Furutech Outlets and Plates + NCF Booster
Shunyata Cables
Synergistic Research Galileo SX Ground Block, FEQ 4, Ethernet Switch UEF, Black Box + Room Acoustic treatments
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July 25, 2018, 09:43 PM #118
Re: Audio Research 160M
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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July 25, 2018, 09:48 PM #119Buddy
Boulder 1160 Amp, 1110 Pre-Amp
Audio Research Ref. 3 Phono-Pre
Vivid Audio Giya G2S2 Speakers
MSB Reference DAC
Innuos Statement w/Next. Gen. PS
B & W DB1D Subwoofer X2
Audioquest Niagara 5000 Power Conditioner
Kronos Pro Turntable w/Kronoscope RS tonearm + SCPS-1 PS + MSL Platinum Cart.
VPI HW-40 Turntable w/ Lyra Etna cartridge
Jay's Audio CDT3-MK3 CD Transport
Schiit Mjolnir 2 HPA + Audeze LCD X headphones
Adona Equipment Rack and Amp Stands
Furutech Outlets and Plates + NCF Booster
Shunyata Cables
Synergistic Research Galileo SX Ground Block, FEQ 4, Ethernet Switch UEF, Black Box + Room Acoustic treatments
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July 25, 2018, 11:55 PM #120
Re: Audio Research 160M
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/2018...85e2aabca1.jpg
Only Rembrandt (or Nikon) could capture the beauty of that room. I am so tempted by the l60M but I love my Pass XA100.5's. It is a good dilemma. The sound in Mike's or Buddy's room is absolutely captivating.
HKHK
Magico S5 MK II's, McIntosh MC 1.25KW's, McIntosh C12000 Solid and Tube Pre , MSB Discrete Dac, Aurender N20, Moon 260D CD Transport, SVS subs(2) SB 1000 Pros, MIT Magnum M1.3 Speaker Cable, Silenzio Music Server, Shunyata Everest, Shunyata Power Cords
Den System: Sonus Faber Maxima Amator, Luxman 509X Integrated Amp, MSB Discrete Dac, Aurender N10, SVS subs(2) SB 1000 Pros, Audio Lab CD transport, Silenzio Music Server, , PurePower 1500.
Theater System: Dynaudio Elite for L&R, Dyn Contour for Center, SCX, Paradigm in-ceiling(2), SVS Subs(2) SB 1000 Pros, Marantz AV8801 Processor, Parasound A31 Amp, Marantz Amp, LG 65""
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July 26, 2018, 10:18 AM #121
- Join Date
- Jun 2013
- Posts
- 1,068
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July 26, 2018, 10:25 AM #122
Re: Audio Research 160M
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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July 26, 2018, 11:06 AM #123
- Join Date
- Jan 2014
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- Los Angeles
- Posts
- 1,775
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July 26, 2018, 12:14 PM #124
Re: Audio Research 160M
Rance
Synology DS411+II | GigaFOILv4 + Keces P3 Power Supply | Shunyata Alpha Ethernet | Lumin S1 | VAC Master Line Stage | VAC Signature 200 iQ amps | Kharma Elegance dB11-S | SVS PC-4000 subs x 2 | Shunyata 6000/T v2 | Kharma Elegance signal cables| Luminous Audio Technology power cables | Isoacoustics OREA vibration isolators | Solid Tech racks | Vicoustic room treatments | Acoustic Sciences Corporation IsoWall + IsoCeiling construction
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July 29, 2018, 01:14 PM #125
Re: Audio Research 160M
Enjoying the ARC 160’s today!
Last edited by joeinid; August 11, 2018 at 09:23 PM.
Buddy
Boulder 1160 Amp, 1110 Pre-Amp
Audio Research Ref. 3 Phono-Pre
Vivid Audio Giya G2S2 Speakers
MSB Reference DAC
Innuos Statement w/Next. Gen. PS
B & W DB1D Subwoofer X2
Audioquest Niagara 5000 Power Conditioner
Kronos Pro Turntable w/Kronoscope RS tonearm + SCPS-1 PS + MSL Platinum Cart.
VPI HW-40 Turntable w/ Lyra Etna cartridge
Jay's Audio CDT3-MK3 CD Transport
Schiit Mjolnir 2 HPA + Audeze LCD X headphones
Adona Equipment Rack and Amp Stands
Furutech Outlets and Plates + NCF Booster
Shunyata Cables
Synergistic Research Galileo SX Ground Block, FEQ 4, Ethernet Switch UEF, Black Box + Room Acoustic treatments
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July 29, 2018, 03:07 PM #126
Re: Audio Research 160M
Buddy
Any update from ARC on dealing with that loud start-up pop you mentioned in another thread?
(Great color on those horns.)
Parker
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July 29, 2018, 03:32 PM #127
Re: Audio Research 160M
Yes ..... the issue has been resolved and thank you for reminding me!
Both my amps and Mike’s exhibited a pop through the speakers when turing them off (in triode mode only).
Mike communicated the findings with ARC and they quickly deployed a solution.
They sent him a small box that when plugged into a circuit board internally combined with a power sequence applied an update that eliminated the issue.
All works perfectly now and there are no pops to be heard. It also should be noted that this only is revealed on very high sensitivity speakers.Buddy
Boulder 1160 Amp, 1110 Pre-Amp
Audio Research Ref. 3 Phono-Pre
Vivid Audio Giya G2S2 Speakers
MSB Reference DAC
Innuos Statement w/Next. Gen. PS
B & W DB1D Subwoofer X2
Audioquest Niagara 5000 Power Conditioner
Kronos Pro Turntable w/Kronoscope RS tonearm + SCPS-1 PS + MSL Platinum Cart.
VPI HW-40 Turntable w/ Lyra Etna cartridge
Jay's Audio CDT3-MK3 CD Transport
Schiit Mjolnir 2 HPA + Audeze LCD X headphones
Adona Equipment Rack and Amp Stands
Furutech Outlets and Plates + NCF Booster
Shunyata Cables
Synergistic Research Galileo SX Ground Block, FEQ 4, Ethernet Switch UEF, Black Box + Room Acoustic treatments
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July 29, 2018, 03:35 PM #128
Re: Audio Research 160M
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkMy Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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July 29, 2018, 04:50 PM #129
Re: Audio Research 160M
Excellent.
Respectable customer service.
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July 29, 2018, 06:42 PM #130
- Join Date
- Jun 2013
- Posts
- 1,068
Re: Audio Research 160M
Buddy, I see you are a covers “on” kind of guy (Mike too)... any interest in letting them breathe. With covers on, what setting do you use for the fan, and can you hear it? (After seeing GS150 I had told my wife the next ARC Ref upgrades should have a visible tubeset, exposed like VS115. Now the 160s are out, I’m eager see those big football kt150s in all their glory.)
Love your speakers, and I’m not really all that fond of blue in most instances, but your’s look amazing.
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July 29, 2018, 07:09 PM #131
Re: Audio Research 160M
Any speaker hiss with the AG/ARC combo when there's no music, and if so how far away are you when you hear it?
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July 29, 2018, 07:12 PM #132
Audio Research 160M
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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July 29, 2018, 07:24 PM #133
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August 11, 2018, 04:45 PM #134
Re: Audio Research 160M
What power cables have you guys tried on the 160M’s?
Are you plugging them into a conditioner or straight into the wall?My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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August 12, 2018, 09:05 AM #135
Re: Audio Research 160M
When I first put the ARC 160 mono’s into my system they were plugged directly into a 20a dedicated circuit via Transparent XL power cables.
Recently I added an Audioquest Niagara 5000 power conditioner. It is connected to the wall with an Audioquest Hurricane HC power cable. The Transparent XL power cables are now plugged into 1 of the high current outlets banks on the Niagara 5000. The other high current duplex powers each woofer amplifier on my Avantgarde Duo XD speakers.Buddy
Boulder 1160 Amp, 1110 Pre-Amp
Audio Research Ref. 3 Phono-Pre
Vivid Audio Giya G2S2 Speakers
MSB Reference DAC
Innuos Statement w/Next. Gen. PS
B & W DB1D Subwoofer X2
Audioquest Niagara 5000 Power Conditioner
Kronos Pro Turntable w/Kronoscope RS tonearm + SCPS-1 PS + MSL Platinum Cart.
VPI HW-40 Turntable w/ Lyra Etna cartridge
Jay's Audio CDT3-MK3 CD Transport
Schiit Mjolnir 2 HPA + Audeze LCD X headphones
Adona Equipment Rack and Amp Stands
Furutech Outlets and Plates + NCF Booster
Shunyata Cables
Synergistic Research Galileo SX Ground Block, FEQ 4, Ethernet Switch UEF, Black Box + Room Acoustic treatments
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August 12, 2018, 10:21 PM #136
- Join Date
- Jun 2013
- Posts
- 1,068
Re: Audio Research 160M
When my 160s finally arrive, I plan to use a Shunyata Denali 2000t, with a pair of Analog Alpha cables. The Denali will be connected to a dedicated 20 amp circuit with a Sigma analog cable. Of course, I’ll ultimately listen without the Denali inline, but it has been an improvement with my Ref75.
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August 13, 2018, 06:56 AM #137
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August 13, 2018, 07:09 AM #138
Re: Audio Research 160M
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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August 19, 2018, 10:29 AM #139
- Join Date
- Jun 2013
- Posts
- 1,068
Re: Audio Research 160M
Mike, Buddy, how has break-in been with the 160s? Any anomalies, or mostly linear? Have you noticed consistent improvement -- because out-of-the-box they are pretty f_ing amazing!
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August 19, 2018, 10:33 AM #140
Re: Audio Research 160M
Buddy
Boulder 1160 Amp, 1110 Pre-Amp
Audio Research Ref. 3 Phono-Pre
Vivid Audio Giya G2S2 Speakers
MSB Reference DAC
Innuos Statement w/Next. Gen. PS
B & W DB1D Subwoofer X2
Audioquest Niagara 5000 Power Conditioner
Kronos Pro Turntable w/Kronoscope RS tonearm + SCPS-1 PS + MSL Platinum Cart.
VPI HW-40 Turntable w/ Lyra Etna cartridge
Jay's Audio CDT3-MK3 CD Transport
Schiit Mjolnir 2 HPA + Audeze LCD X headphones
Adona Equipment Rack and Amp Stands
Furutech Outlets and Plates + NCF Booster
Shunyata Cables
Synergistic Research Galileo SX Ground Block, FEQ 4, Ethernet Switch UEF, Black Box + Room Acoustic treatments
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August 19, 2018, 10:52 AM #141
Re: Audio Research 160M
The break in is much more subtle with the 160’s. Great out of the box and getting better. Admittedly, I haven’t tried them much in Ultralinear mode. Triode mode is just so delicious. I still have the 160’s at home (selfishly). They’re wonderful in Triode mode on the AG’s. But they will have to go back to the store (one day).
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
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August 19, 2018, 12:05 PM #142
Re: Audio Research 160M
Micro Seiki SX-8000 air bearing table, SME 312s arm, SME 3012R arn, Dynavector XV-1s cartridge, Lyra Etna SL cartridge, ARC Ref 3 phono stage, Otari MX-55 2 track R2R, Ampex 350 tape repros, Roon Nucleus Plus music server, HiFi Rose 150B DAC, ARC Ref 6, ARC Ref 75 with KT-150s, Parasound JC5 amp , JBL 4345 speakers, Viero Equilibro Level 3 speaker cables, and Definitive Technology Ref subs.
Reviewer for Positive Feedback
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August 20, 2018, 05:02 PM #143
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August 20, 2018, 05:12 PM #144
Re: Audio Research 160M
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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August 21, 2018, 04:25 PM #145
- Join Date
- Jun 2013
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- 1,068
Re: Audio Research 160M
Initially I didn't hear a dramatic improvement—nothing like when I put the Triton v3 in my system. In my case the Denali improvements were much more subtle, less noise just seemed perhaps to bring the music more into focus. When I had my audio buddies over they all seemed to think my system was sounding better than it ever had.
Just wait until they hear the 160Ms!
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August 21, 2018, 05:26 PM #146Micro Seiki SX-8000 air bearing table, SME 312s arm, SME 3012R arn, Dynavector XV-1s cartridge, Lyra Etna SL cartridge, ARC Ref 3 phono stage, Otari MX-55 2 track R2R, Ampex 350 tape repros, Roon Nucleus Plus music server, HiFi Rose 150B DAC, ARC Ref 6, ARC Ref 75 with KT-150s, Parasound JC5 amp , JBL 4345 speakers, Viero Equilibro Level 3 speaker cables, and Definitive Technology Ref subs.
Reviewer for Positive Feedback
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August 24, 2018, 12:15 PM #147
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- Jun 2013
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- 1,068
Re: Audio Research 160M
OK, I've had a couple nights of listening now with the 160s... got 'em on StillPoints (like I had the Ref75) and a couple new amps stands from Core Audio. Each listening session is just fantastic. I am a huge fan of the Ref75, it is an amp that punches way, way above its weight class, and I have had many, many nights of sonic bliss with that amp -- many times thinking this is good enough, it'll take huge money to get maybe a bit more from my system. Enter the REF 160M mono-blocks. Granted, the price delta between them and the little REF75 isn't trivial, but I can honestly say they are better in every way, which is to say ARC has produced one of the finest amps I've ever heard in the 160s.
Tonally the 160s are a touch richer, with substantially better bass in terms of depth, weight, and resolution. Even my wife says there is much more space between instruments, they are more clearly defined in the soundstage. Depth of soundstage is improved, with vastly improved three-dimensionality (layering). I can't say the top end is more extended as my hearing way up high isn't what it once was, but there is clearly more resolution.
I am smitten. Usually the audio boner subsides once the new gear is in place, but these new amps are like starting an affair with a supermodel, I keep coming back for more. (Not that I have ever had an affair with a supermodel, but it sounds good, right?)
I feel like the benefits of my acoustic remodel are allowing me to fully experience just how great these new amps are. As an example, I have heard Jennifer Warnes "Way Down Deep" many times, on many systems. The Dag SS amps with Alexias really plumbed the depths with this song, and showed off the low bass cababilities of the Alexias, but I had never heard the Dag amps in my room. With the 160s I am hearing all that I ever heard with the Dags, and I'll argue perhaps a bit more, but that could easily be a result of the room. Then there is the whole triode mode thing... I am just tinkering with this and on ballads or, for example, female jazz vocalists the "in the room" illusion is stunning.
I wish y'all could stop by for a listen.
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August 24, 2018, 01:43 PM #148
Re: Audio Research 160M
Great news Bob! The 160s are terrific amps and are a great match for the Alexias. Enjoy the music!
_______________
Mike
Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
Rack: Artesania Exoteryc
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August 24, 2018, 02:58 PM #149
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
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- St. Louis, MO, USA
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- 3,066
Re: Audio Research 160M
I feel...... something, justified, validated, proud, whatever, LOL I knew from my listen at Axpona the 160M was something special. There were a few threads here on the 160M's and I made some claims. I even declared the Axpona set up with the 160M's my best of show. I know at leas 3 members who have the 160M's and seem to love them. I just think it's cool I nailed the 160M's and to have those who agree to the extent to vote with the pocket book.
Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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August 24, 2018, 03:03 PM #150
- Join Date
- Jan 2014
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- Los Angeles
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- 1,775
Re: Audio Research 160M
Brinkmann Bardo w/ EMT HSD-006 cart, MSB Reference DAC --> Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL --> Ampzilla 2000, 2nd Edition --> Fyne Audio F1-12
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team
Thx for responding, bryans. My experience so far has been incredible. Beyond my expectations.
T+A PSD 3100 HV Owners Around?