Audio Research REF80S Power Amplifier

Original BOX and Packaging available - Mint condition without any flaws or scratches - 1200 hours on the tubes - List price for new is 18000$

The Reference 80S stereo amplifier continues Audio Research’s latest design effort in creating a vacuum-tube amplifier that not only redefines ultimate music reproduction, but does it in an incredibly beautiful package.

The 80S was created with as much spirited authority as we can pack into a compact circuit with 2 KT150 tubes per channel for music lovers who want Reference-level performance at the lowest possible barrier to entry.

Outwardly, the 80S shares the same dimensions as the 160M. A single shallow whisper fan is built into the bottom plate. Flexibility is built-in, too, with XLR and SE inputs, 4-8-16 ohm output taps, 12V input and output triggers, RS232 input, tube hour meter, switchable fan speeds, and defeatable auto-off function.

The feature set is the same as the 160S, including a proprietary auto-bias circuit that adjusts for not only tube age, but for powerline voltage swings. There is fusing of the output tubes for safety and stability, single-ended and balanced inputs for flexibility, switchable Triode/Pentode operation – distinguished from the Triode/Ultralinear modes in the 160 models – to accommodate loudspeakers and personal preference, output tube monitoring, and inclusion of an hour meter. This is a tube amplifier that does not require fiddling and is meant to be enjoyed. The built-in 12V trigger turns the 80S on or off when connected to a modern preamp.