Galileo

Jim...the designer used two classic ARC pieces (the SP-1 preamp introduced in 1970 and the D-79 amp introduced in 1979) for his inspiration and modernized the materials, the lines, and the overall look and feel. They are meant to harken back to the old-style look and feel but with modern cues. I am not sure I dig it but may have a different reaction if I see it in person. I certainly do not agree with their pricing here. They went way too aggressive. It may be that they market these pieces as commemorative/limited editions with a limited production run like they did with the Ref 40th Anniversary edition preamp (which they only produced for one year or they may limit the production run to max out at a certain number) and maybe that's how they justify the premium pricing but it does not make sense to me in relation to the pricing on the Reference series pre and amps!
 
I am a little concerned with the pricing and positioning of these pieces. I have found ARC to be a true bargain in the industry relative to Dag, Constellation, Solution, etc. Now, if these pieces are below Ref in performance, this can only mean the next Ref products are going to jump in price significantly. One might also expect new Ref designs to be more bling faces to justify the upcharge. Lots of other companies charging what they do, ARC new management may feel they've been leaving a lot of money on the table.

ARC look has been due for some refreshing, and I liked open visible tubes of VS115, but:panic:at what cost? (And, also risk of alienating buyers due to looks.)
 
cmalak said:
Jim...the designer used two classic ARC pieces (the SP-1 preamp introduced in 1970 and the D-79 amp introduced in 1979) for his inspiration and modernized the materials, the lines, and the overall look and feel. They are meant to harken back to the old-style look and feel but with modern cues. I am not sure I dig it but may have a different reaction if I see it in person. I certainly do not agree with their pricing here. They went way too aggressive. It may be that they market these pieces as commemorative/limited editions with a limited production run like they did with the Ref 40th Anniversary edition preamp (which they only produced for one year or they may limit the production run to max out at a certain number) and maybe that's how they justify the premium pricing but it does not make sense to me in relation to the pricing on the Reference series pre and amps!
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+1 I would wait to see them in person!
 
They should do a video (a la Wilson) to launch the Galileo series. Share and explain what is it that they are trying to achieve with this new ARC line and how is it positioned within the brand. David Wilson and his team do a terrific job doing this as part of their product launch playbook.
 
Mike...they have a video (you can find on ARC website and also in the Mono & Stereo link) but with no narration. I agree a video with a clear explanation of the motivation and design principles and where it fits in the line is in order.

As Bob has said, I am concerned that such moves will alienate traditional ARV buyer who values substance over style. ARC products have always emphasized SQ over fancy boxes and delivery of good value in their products (they have always been premium priced products but still delivering a lot of bang for the buck relative to the competition). It seems that the Galileo series moves them away from this ethic of providing good value. I may be totally wrong and the combination of superior SQ and new styling justifies the new premium price points but it doesn't seem so to me.
 
I still think the KT-150s remind me of small footballs. I hope that ARC will authorize their use in the REF 75. I will use them if they do.
 
Personally, I kinda dig the look, but worry it will just be something trendy. With the lofty prices, I am reconsidering adding Ref Phono 2SE to my rack before there is a sudden price bump, or before it is replaced by the new bling-ier model at twice the price. I don't want to be cynical, but the prices for the new gear, unless replacing some REF series, seems out of character for ARC so what will be next?

If GS150 replaces Ref 150, with move to new tubes, hopefully a SQ bump, and the nifty casework, I might be forgiving. Else what is in store for their "Reference" line?
 
I heard one of the new ARC Galileo amps with the new Lilium Sonus Faber speaker at the Munich show. It sounded so good!
 
Can't wait for your opinion. I still don't know where in the line the Galileo gear sits relative to the Reference series. Hopefully we'll get more info as the gear ships and gets into peoples systems. Congrats Nelson.


highEndguy said:
:)
I placed my first order for a pair

Cant wait
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highEndguy said:
:)
I placed my first order for a pair

Cant wait
Click to expand...

Nelson, hurry up or it will soon be xmas :D

joeinid said:
Can't wait for your opinion. I still don't know where in the line the Galileo gear sits relative to the Reference series. Hopefully we'll get more info as the gear ships and gets into peoples systems. Congrats Nelson.
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Joe, I'm guessing it's a sneaky upgrade to fly under the sh*t hitting the fan, otherwise known as existing customers wrath.
 
That's what I was thinking too Kev. The looks are growing on me.
 
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