Audio Research Reference 80S Stereo Power Amplifier

Audio Research Reference 80S Stereo Power Amplifier

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.

Like every Reference amplifier before it, the 80S is a fully-balanced differential design, delivering the highest performance and lowest distortion. A four-layer circuit board is used to provide a separate ground plane, better circuit layout, and fewer noise-inducing point-to-point connections.

Music is projected against a quiet, jet-black background—like looking at the stars out in the country, removed from light pollution. It is magical and enveloping. The finest details are heard, with rich harmonics, incisive bass, and full dynamic contrasts, showcased with the ambience of the original acoustic space.