{"product_id":"audio-research-reference-6se-preamplifier","title":"Audio Research Reference 6SE Preamplifier","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn the pursuit of ultimate musical realism, there can be no compromise. The Audio Research Reference 6SE is the definitive statement in line-stage preamplifier design, a component engineered to be the transparent, beating heart of a truly world-class audio system. As the direct descendant of the legendary REF6, the Special Edition (SE) elevates performance to a breathtaking new level, incorporating the most advanced component technologies and wiring derived from Audio Research’s flagship 160-series amplifiers. Its massive, all-tube, pure Class-A circuit, fed by a robust dual-mono power supply, creates a sound that is utterly boundless, transparent, and dynamically alive. The REF 6SE is not just a component; it is a direct conduit to the soul of the recording.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlagship Special Edition (SE) Upgrades:\u003c\/strong\u003e Incorporates the same proprietary gold coupling caps and special internal wiring found in the flagship Reference 160-series amplifiers for a dramatic leap in resolution and transparency.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMassive All-Tube Signal Path:\u003c\/strong\u003e The audio circuit features six premium 6H30 vacuum tubes (three per channel) in a pure Class-A, fully balanced, zero-feedback design.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDual-Mono Power Supply:\u003c\/strong\u003e A true dual-mono power supply with vacuum-tube regulation (featuring a 6H30 and a 6550WE) ensures absolute channel separation and limitless dynamic headroom.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVersatile Inputs and Outputs:\u003c\/strong\u003e A complete suite of connectivity, including four balanced (XLR) and four single-ended (RCA) inputs, plus two balanced and two single-ended main outputs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHome Theater Pass-Through:\u003c\/strong\u003e A discrete, processor pass-through input allows for seamless integration into a high-end home theater system without compromising two-channel purity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIntuitive Front Panel Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e A large, clear vacuum-fluorescent display provides easy access to all functions, including input naming, tube hours, and auto shutdown.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRedesigned Chassis:\u003c\/strong\u003e A newly designed chassis with improved structural rigidity helps to dissipate electrical and mechanical resonance for a quieter background.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in Tube Hour Meter:\u003c\/strong\u003e An integrated timer tracks the usage of the vacuum tubes, making it easy to know when it's time for a replacement set.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClassic Audio Research Build:\u003c\/strong\u003e Housed in the iconic chassis with a brushed aluminum faceplate and sturdy handles, all handcrafted in Minnesota, USA.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFull-Function Metal Remote:\u003c\/strong\u003e Includes a full-function metal remote control for complete command from the listening chair.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eThe Power of \"Special Edition\"\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"SE\" designation signifies a profound evolution, infusing the Reference 6SE with the very DNA of Audio Research's most acclaimed and expensive components. The most critical signal paths now feature the same custom-designed, proprietary gold coupling capacitors and special wiring developed for the award-winning Reference 160-series amplifiers. This is not a subtle tweak; it is a fundamental upgrade that results in a startling increase in resolution, a more palpable and three-dimensional soundstage, and a sense of effortless dynamic swing. The music emerges from a quieter, blacker background, allowing you to hear the finest threads of musical information with breathtaking clarity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eThe Purity of Tubes\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe soul of the Reference 6SE resides in its magnificent, all-tube audio circuit. Six premium 6H30 vacuum tubes form the heart of a pure Class-A, fully balanced design that operates with zero negative feedback. This is the quintessential Audio Research topology, revered for its ability to reproduce music with a harmonic completeness, tonal richness, and dynamic realism that is simply unattainable with other designs. It doesn't just play the notes; it reveals the space between them, the texture of the instruments, and the emotional intent of the artist, creating an experience of profound immersion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eThe Foundation of Silence\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA preamplifier's ability to create a silent canvas is paramount. The REF 6SE achieves this through a heroic, dual-mono power supply that is a masterpiece in its own right. This robust, tube-regulated design ensures that each channel is fed immaculately clean, stable, and completely isolated power. This fanatical attention to power purity is fundamental to achieving the \"High Definition\" sound, providing the silent, unwavering foundation necessary for the audio circuit to resolve the most delicate musical passages and reproduce the most explosive dynamic swings with absolute composure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eA Legacy of Craftsmanship\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Reference 6SE is instantly recognizable as an Audio Research component, built to the same exacting standards the company has upheld for over 50 years. The newly redesigned chassis provides greater structural integrity, while the classic brushed aluminum faceplate and substantial handles are a testament to its \"built-to-last\" philosophy. Every component is meticulously assembled by hand in Minnesota, USA, undergoing rigorous testing and quality control at every stage. This is not a product designed for obsolescence; it is a handcrafted musical instrument, built to be the enduring heart of your system for a lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eThe Listening Room Difference\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you shop with The Listening Room, you get more than just gear. As a third-generation, family-run business with a passion for music and decades of experience, we offer personalized service that goes far beyond the sale. Call, text, or email, and you’ll get a real human who knows this equipment inside and out. From in-store demos to curated home system design and wide-radius delivery, we’re here to help you get the absolute best out of your purchase.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecification\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetail\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFrequency Response\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e+0-3dB, 0.4Hz to 200kHz at rated output\u003cbr\u003e(Balanced, 200k ohms load)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDistortion\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLess than .01% at 2V RMS BAL output\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGain\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMain output: 12dB Balanced output, 6dB SE output\u003cbr\u003eRecord out: 0dB (Processor input: 0dB BAL output)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInput Impedance\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e120K ohms Balanced, 60K ohms SE\u003cbr\u003eInputs: 4 balanced, 4 single-ended\u003cbr\u003eAssignable processor passthrough\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOutput Impedance\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e600 ohms Balanced, 300 ohms SE Main (2)\u003cbr\u003e20K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance. Outputs (3): 2 main, 1 record out (XLR and RCA connectors).\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOutput Polarity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNon-inverting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaximum Input\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e18V RMS BAL, 9V RMS SE\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRated Outputs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2V RMS (1V RMS SE) into 200K ohm balanced load (maximum balanced output capability is 70V RMS at less than 0.5% THD at 1kHz)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCrosstalk\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e-88dB or better at 1kHz and 10 kHz\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eControls\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRotary encoders: Volume (103 steps), Select Input.\u003cbr\u003ePush Buttons: Power, Menu, Enter, Mono, Invert, Mute\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePower Supplies\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eElectronically regulated low and high voltage supplies. Automatic 45 sec. warm-up\/ brown-out mute. Line regulation better than .01%.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNoise\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.7uV RMS residual IHF weighted balanced equivalent input noise with volume at 1 (109dB below 2V RMS output.)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTube Complement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e(6)-6H30P dual triodes, plus (1 each) 6550WE\u003cbr\u003eand 6H30P in power supply\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePower Requirements\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100-135VAC 60Hz (200-250VAC 50\/60Hz) 130 watts. Standby: 2 watts.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDimensions\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWidth: 19” (48 cm) Height: 7.8” (19.8 cm) Depth: 16.5” (41.9 cm) Handles extend 1.6” (4 cm) forward of the front panel. Weight: 37.5 lbs. (17 kg) Net; 49 lbs. (22.3 kg) Shipping\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Audio Research","offers":[{"title":"Black","offer_id":67848735195505,"sku":"ARREF6SEBL","price":13725.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Silver","offer_id":67848735228273,"sku":"ARREF6SESI","price":13725.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0923\/5215\/1921\/files\/6SE-main.jpg?v=1792519193","url":"https:\/\/sliyden.store\/products\/audio-research-reference-6se-preamplifier","provider":"sliyden.store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}