This pre-amp is the finest hi-end audio component I've ever owned. Most likely if you're checking this ad then you're already familiar with what this is: A top-flight, world-class piece, a case of where the product lives up to its namesake--this is indeed a true "Reference-level" component. Among my overall impressions of the REF3 are that it is extremely refined with an astonishingly low noise-floor (it is in fact "dead quiet"). Also, I've read where other components have been characterized as (being) "well-sorted" and this pre-amp is exactly that: well-sorted and presents the music in a "well-sorted" manner; it simply draws you into the music. The only next logical "upgrade" step is to lay-out another $3,000-$4,000 and spend $8,000-$8,500 for a pre-owned ARC 5SE and if you're able to do that, then more power to you (we won't even get into the newly-released $14,000 REF6, lol). The S/N of this unit is 37403101. This unit is in mint condition and as such actually rates as a "9-Excellent/Like", however I am conservatively rating it "8-Very Good", only because of its age (ca. 2007). Please note this unit does feature the 6550C power-supply tube revision (which replaced the 6L6GC tube) as well as the 4 bypass capacitor revision which was implemented to REF3 units by ARC at the production line. Tube hours currently reading "952" and as such are good for at least another several thousand hours! Please refer to REF3 owner's comments who report "still wonderful sound" at excess of 5,000 and 6,300 hours! here: https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/audio-research-ref3-tube-question-clarification Comes with the specially designed ARC Factory-supplied 20Amp power cable, "REF3R" remote, and shipping carton/packing materials. I do not have the original Owner's Manual but a pdf copy will be provided. Asking price includes a 4-foot length Darwin Ascension Plus interconnect with single-ended RCA connectors. Original retail for this model & length was $845 ($795/3ft+$50/extra ft). These cables have received rave reviews from both reviewers and owners alike and I've found these are a great match with the REF3 (> to Amp). I will also cover the first $50 of shipping at my asking price, and is limited to the US only (Sorry, no overseas or International shipping). Please check my membership feedback here and at Audiogon under "Soberdude". As always local audition, inspection and pick-up/delivery is welcomed. Thanks for looking.
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