PRESS RELEASE: May 1, 2025 (Maple Grove, Minnesota)
Audio Research's latest announcement marks a significant milestone in its illustrious 55-year history, showcasing an impressive commitment to innovation and quality. The introduction of six new products—the largest in the company's history—represents not only a testament to the engineering prowess brought in by owner Valerio Cora and his talented team of engineers, but also a heartfelt dedication to the audio community.
For many years, Audio Research has been synonymous with excellence in high-performance audio, while also cherishing its role in welcoming new generations of music enthusiasts into the fold. The departure from our cornerstone introductory products, which laid the foundation of our company 55 years ago, was a loss felt deeply by many loyal customers and supporters. However, the 2023 initiative to reintroduce high-value, high-performance electronics at more accessible price points reflects a renewed commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in the world of high-fidelity sound.
Each product is meticulously handcrafted in Minnesota, embodying the spirit of craftsmanship and the legacy of Audio Research. The combination of innovative design, empirical engineering, and thousands of hours of careful listening ensures that these new offerings not only uphold but elevate the benchmark of performance that the brand is known for. This fresh start signals a promising future, one that honors our storied past while embracing the next generation of music lovers with open arms. The Audio Research family continues to grow, and it’s an exciting time for both the company and its passionate community.
I/70 Integrated Amplifier
The I/70 Integrated Amplifier stands proudly as the larger sibling to the I/50, offering a significant leap in audio performance and flexibility that will captivate music lovers and audiophiles alike. Designed with precision and passion, the I/70 is engineered to provide an extraordinary listening experience, making it a centerpiece in any high-fidelity audio system.
Key features include:
- Auto bias for 6550 output tubes: Ensures optimal performance and longevity for these critical components.
- Separate active tube preamplifier section driving its tube amplifier section: Allows for a rich, dynamic sound that truly brings your music to life.
- Preamp/Subwoofer single-ended preamp outputs: Offers flexibility for integrating additional components into your audio setup.
- Utilizes the same output transformers used in the Reference 75SE amplifier: Guarantees exceptional sound quality.
- Headphones are driven by the 6550 output tubes: Provides an immersive listening experience for intimate sessions.
- XLR inputs: Ready to accommodate balanced source components, enhancing versatility.
- Styling inspired by the Reference 330M: A visually striking addition to any audio setup, now available in natural silver or black anodized finishes.
- New machined metal remote control: Adds sophistication and ease of use for effortless navigation.
- Optional DAC card including USB, Coax, Optical, and Bluetooth: Expands functionality for modern audio needs.
- Optional MM/MC Phono card: Enhances versatility for vinyl enthusiasts.
- US Retail $9,950: Represents an incredible value for its performance and features. Adding the DAC or Phono Card adds $1,000 each, or $1,500 for both cards installed in a new I/70.
Preamplifiers
LS-2
The LS-2 is an exceptional new tube preamplifier that embodies the essence of high-performance audio. With a design that features a cathode follower and eliminates any solid-state devices from its signal path, the LS-2 prioritizes purity and authenticity in sound reproduction.
This preamplifier is built on a single gain stage that operates in pure Class-A mode, delivering a warm and rich audio experience without the use of any feedback. The constant current cathode bias further enhances its performance, ensuring stability and consistency in sound quality.
The LS-2 is not just a piece of audio equipment; it represents a commitment to the art of music listening, allowing audiophiles to experience their favorite recordings with unparalleled clarity and depth. This preamplifier is poised to become an essential component for those who seek the very best in audio performance.
- Full touch-screen display, including balance, input labeling, and display options including color.
- New machined metal remote.
- Balanced XLR and RCA inputs.
- Optional DAC card including USB, Coax and Optical. User installable.
- Optional MM/MC (42dB/62dB) Phono card. User installable.
- US Retail $8,450. Adding the DAC or Phono Card adds $1,000 each, or $1,500 for both cards installed in a new LS-2 preamp.
LS-3
The LS-3 is an exciting new preamplifier that showcases the innovative work of our dedicated team of solid-state engineers. While it may appear externally identical to the LS-2, the LS-3 represents a significant advancement in solid-state design and technology.
At its core, the LS-3 utilizes a differential JFET-based input stage, which enhances signal integrity and reduces noise, followed by a bipolar transistor-based voltage amplifier that ensures robust performance. The Class-A output stage delivers a warm and dynamic sound, making it a perfect choice for discerning audiophiles.
The signal path in the LS-3 is meticulously designed with dual mono architecture, featuring separate power transformers for each channel. This configuration not only enhances channel separation but also contributes to a cleaner, more immersive listening experience. Additionally, the inclusion of a zero gain cascaded voltage reference and linear power supplies ensures optimal stability and performance.
With the LS-3, Audio Research continues to push the boundaries of high-fidelity audio, delivering a preamplifier that combines cutting-edge technology with the passion for sound quality that has defined our legacy. This remarkable piece of equipment is set to elevate your audio experience to new heights.
- Full touch screen display, including balance, input labeling, and display options including color.
- New machined metal remote.
- Balanced XLR and RCA inputs.
- Optional DAC card including USB, Coax and Optical. User installable.
- Optional MM/MC Phono card. User installable.
- US Retail $7,450. Adding the DAC or Phono Card adds $1,000 each, or $1,500 for both cards installed in a new LS-3 preamp
Amplifiers
S-100 Solid-State Power Amplifier
With a powerful output of 100 WPC, this stereo amplifier is the culmination of passion and ingenuity from our newly formed solid-state engineering team, designed to breathe life into your favorite recordings.
At the core of the S-100 lies a meticulously crafted signal path that begins with a differential JFET-based input stage, ensuring that every nuance and detail of the music is captured with stunning clarity. The voltage amplifier and Class-AB output stages, built on bipolar transistor designs, deliver a rich, dynamic sound that resonates deeply, allowing you to feel the emotion and energy of each performance.
Fully balanced from input to output, the S-100 minimizes interference and distortion, creating an immersive listening experience that transports you into the heart of the music. With the flexibility of balanced or single-ended operation selectable from the rear panel, you can tailor your setup to perfectly match your audio environment and personal preferences.
The S-100 is a gateway to musical connection, inviting you to experience your favorite tracks with renewed passion and depth. Whether it’s the delicate strum of a guitar, the soaring notes of a vocalist, or the intricate layers of a symphony, this amplifier is designed to evoke emotion and create unforgettable moments. Let the S-100 be your companion on a journey through sound, where every note resonates with the spirit of the music you love.
- Rated power 100 WPC into 8 ohms.
- Rated power 200 WPC into 4 ohms.
- New chassis design with custom machined heat sinks.
- US Retail $9,450.
S-200 Solid-State Power Amplifier
The S-200 is an exceptional 200 WPC stereo power amplifier, thoughtfully crafted by our dedicated solid-state engineering team. Building on the successful circuit topology of the S-100, the S-200 takes performance to the next level, expertly tuned to provide greater dynamics demands and higher output. This amplifier is designed for those who crave not just power, but a profound connection to their music.
With its enhanced capabilities, the S-200 features higher capacity power supplies and a robust current output stage design, ensuring that every note is delivered with authority and precision. This amplifier is capable of effortlessly driving a wide range of speakers, filling your space with dynamic soundscapes that breathe life into your favorite recordings.
The front panel of the S-200 is not just functional, it’s a visual statement, adorned with sleek white-onblack power meters reminiscent of our latest Reference amplifiers. These meters provide a striking visual cue of the amplifier's performance, allowing you to engage with the music on a deeper level as you witness the power being harnessed in real-time.
The S-200 is an invitation to experience music like never before. With every listening session, you’ll feel the energy and emotion of the artists as this powerful component transforms your audio environment into a concert hall of sound. Let the S-200 be your guide on a journey through the rich tapestry of music, where every detail resonates and every moment is cherished.
- Rated power 200 WPC into 8 ohms.
- Rated power 400 WPC into 4 ohms.
- New chassis design with custom machined heat sinks.
- US Retail $12,950.
D-80 Tube Power Amplifier
The D-80 is a classically beautiful stereo power amplifier built on the esteemed Reference 80S platform, replacing the VT80SE and setting a new benchmark for vacuum-tube performance in its price range. This fully balanced differential design operates in Pentode mode, similar to the acclaimed 330M, elevating audio quality to an entirely new plateau.
80WPC using 2 pairs of KT150 output tubes: Delivers robust power and dynamic range, ensuring that every note is rendered with clarity and impact.
- Auto bias for output tubes: Guarantees optimal performance and longevity, allowing you to enjoy consistent sound quality without the hassle of manual adjustments.
- XLR inputs: Provides the finest connectivity for enhanced audio quality.
- 4-8-16 ohm output terminals: Offers versatility to accommodate a wide range of speaker configurations, ensuring compatibility with your audio setup.
- 12V remote trigger: Simplifies integration with other components in your audio system for seamless operation.
- US Retail $12,950: Reflects the exceptional quality and performance offered by this amplifier.
The D-80 is more than just a power amplifier; it is an invitation to experience music in its purest form. With its advanced design and thoughtful engineering, the D-80 will transform your listening experience, allowing you to connect deeply with the artistry of your favorite recordings. Let the D-80 be the heart of your audio system, delivering a rich and immersive sound that resonates with passion and emotion.
Please be advised that products are scheduled to begin shipping at the end of May 2025. Prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please let us know if you have any questions.
