Seeking advice on Audio Research gear

[Ross B.]

Some of you may remember that I once had an ARC SP-11 and D-125 setup. I have since sold that gear, and now, suffering sellers remorse, am seeking to rebuild an ARC system.

Previously I recall there being an excellent Facebook group for ARC gear. I cannot seem to find it now. If anyone knows what happened to it, please let me know. I am posting here as I believe this community is the second most knowledgeable with ARC after that Facebook group.

I've seen affordable listings for the following preamps/line stages

LS1, LS3, LS7, LS8, SP9, and SP14.

Would any of these be particularly *bad* choices? I know the LS-5, SP-6, SP-8, SP-10, SP-11, and LS-25 are all more highly regarded, but they also sell for at least twice as much as these entry level units. I don't need "amazing", but I don't want to be disappointed.

[GdnrBob]

I have nothing but respect for ARC gear, but at these prices, if it were me, I would be looking at the new Vandy preamp (and amp).

My 2 cents... 

And, sorry if I offend.

Bob

[Ross B.]

17 minutes ago, GdnrBob said:

I have nothing but respect for ARC gear, but at these prices, if it were me, I would be looking at the new Vandy preamp (and amp).

I'm looking at used equipment only.

[Stringreen]

Im just wondering if they could fix it if it broke.....they have had lots of business problems of late

[Ross B.]

I can do a lot myself, and I've had ARC gear repaired by a local shop before. I'm not worried about The Mothership becoming unavailable.

[Holmz]

I have a lowly level of ARC phono stage .
Even it sounds pretty fantastic.

The only thing potentially “wrong” would be that they are have a similar form factor, and the board inside of it have plenty of room for ventilation.

If one wanted a small and compact system, then they could do better.