Audio Research Reference 330M Available in the UK

Probably the finest valve amp ever made – meet the Audio Research Reference 330M…

Now available in the UK, the new flagship monoblock power amplifier from the American gods of valve-based audio delivers an extraordinarily natural, tangibly realistic and uniquely emotional musical experience

Summary

Audio Research’s finest-ever power amplifier – the culmination of 55 years at the apex of valve amp design
Fully balanced, pentode-mode monoblock design raises the bar for valve-based sound and delivers a new high-end audio reference
Extraordinary power for a valve amp – 330 watts, more than double that of the previously range-topping Reference 160M MkII
Output stage incorporates six KT170 valves – the world’s most advanced high-power, low-distortion audio valve – driven by JFET transistors
Uniquely designed valve/solid-state hybrid input and power supply circuitry with an all-valve signal path
Audio Research’s trademarked GhostMeter® VU display ‘floats’ in front of the KT170 valves within a dual-layer glass window
Built for longevity and operational convenience, with proprietary auto-bias, valve monitoring and technology to extend valve life
Limitless headroom, vice-like control, startling dynamics, rich tonality and exquisite fine detail – the Reference 330M captures the life and soul of music in all its glory

Specifications

Power output: 330W
Output taps: 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Valves – output stage: 6x KT170
Valves – input stage: 1x ECC83, 1x 6H30
Valves – power supply: 1x 6550, 1x 6H30
Inputs: balanced XLR and single-ended RCA
Control ports: 12V triggers, RS-232 remote control
Weight: 45.8kg

Price and availability

Having showcased prototypes at audio shows around the world, Audio Research has finally completed its painstaking development of the Reference 330M and the amp is now shipping from the company’s HQ in Minnesota, USA.

Available in a choice of black or natural (silver) finishes, the Reference 330M is officially ‘price on application’ in the UK owing to fluctuations in exchange rates and import costs, but customers can expect to pay around £92,000 inc. VAT for a stereo pair.

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