Audio Research LS2 Pre-Amplifier

$17,500.00

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Colour: Silver

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Inspired by the award-winning LS2 line stage that captivated audiophiles in the early 1990s, the all-new Audio Research LS-2 brings the company's legendary valve expertise into a modern, beautifully engineered preamplifier. Designed from the ground up to deliver uncompromising musical performance, the LS-2 combines a minimalist signal path with contemporary convenience, creating an exceptional centrepiece for any high-end two-channel system.

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Specifications

Type Stereo line-stage tube preamplifier
Circuit Design Pure tube, zero feedback, pure Class A
Tube Complement 2 × 6H30 dual-triode vacuum tubes
Topology Single gain stage with cathode follower output
Frequency Response -0.3dB at 10Hz – 40kHz (100kΩ load)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise <0.03% at 2V RMS balanced output (10Hz–80kHz, unweighted)
Noise -77dBV at maximum volume setting
Gain 12dB (balanced and single-ended outputs)
Input Impedance 25kΩ (balanced and single-ended)
Output Impedance 10Ω balanced / 25Ω single-ended
Crosstalk -76dB
Output Polarity Inverting
Power Consumption 35W maximum
Standby Power 4.4W
Power Supply Regulated internal power supply
Remote Control Machined aluminium remote included
Display Full-colour touchscreen interface
Finish Options Silver or black aluminium chassis

Don't kid around. Please tell me that 'LS' stands for 'luscious sound'.

Home Technology Review

Pure Class A Valve Performance

At the heart of the LS-2 is a pure tube, zero-feedback, pure Class A circuit employing two premium 6H30 dual-triode vacuum tubes. Free from solid-state devices in the signal path, the design prioritises absolute transparency, preserving the integrity of every recording while revealing remarkable tonal colour, harmonic richness, and effortless musical flow. Every note is reproduced with stunning realism, from the delicate decay of a piano to the full dynamic impact of a symphony orchestra.

The LS-2 presents music on a grand scale, recreating the acoustic space of the recording with exceptional depth, width, and pinpoint imaging. Voices appear naturally centred, instruments occupy clearly defined positions within the soundstage, and subtle ambient cues emerge from an impressively quiet background. The result is an engaging, emotionally compelling listening experience that invites hours of uninterrupted enjoyment.

A Modern Classic, Reimagined

Modern functionality has been thoughtfully integrated without compromising sonic purity. A vibrant full-colour touchscreen provides intuitive access to input naming, balance adjustment, display customisation, and system settings, while the beautifully machined aluminium remote offers precise control from the listening position. Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs ensure compatibility with a wide range of premium source components, while optional user-installable DAC and MM/MC phono modules allow the LS-2 to evolve alongside your system.

Wrapped in Audio Research's elegant all-aluminium chassis, inspired by the styling of its flagship Reference Series components, the LS-2 is as visually refined as it is sonically accomplished. It represents the perfect balance of traditional valve craftsmanship and contemporary innovation, delivering the unmistakable Audio Research sound to a new generation of music lovers.

Who is this for?

The Audio Research LS-2 is designed for discerning audiophiles seeking the unmistakable character of a pure valve preamplifier without unnecessary complexity. It's an ideal partner for high-end solid-state or tube power amplifiers, premium digital sources, and reference turntables, offering a future-ready platform thanks to its optional DAC and phono modules. For listeners who value emotional engagement as much as technical excellence, the LS-2 is an exceptional choice.

Does the Audio Research LS-2 include a phono stage?

The standard LS-2 is a line-level preamplifier and does not include a built-in phono stage. However, it can be fitted with an optional MM/MC phono module, allowing you to connect a turntable directly without the need for an external phono preamplifier.

Can I connect digital sources directly to the LS-2?

Yes. The LS-2 can be equipped with an optional DAC module featuring USB, coaxial, and optical digital inputs, making it easy to connect streamers, CD transports, televisions, and computers while maintaining Audio Research's renowned sound quality.

What vacuum tubes does the LS-2 use?

The LS-2 uses two premium 6H30 dual-triode vacuum tubes operating in a pure Class A, zero-feedback circuit. These tubes are renowned for their low noise, excellent linearity, and long service life.

Is the LS-2 fully balanced?

Yes. The LS-2 features balanced XLR inputs and outputs alongside traditional RCA connections, providing maximum flexibility and compatibility with both balanced and single-ended audio systems.

Can the LS-2 be used with solid-state power amplifiers?

Absolutely. The LS-2 is designed to partner equally well with both tube and solid-state power amplifiers. Its low output impedance and transparent line stage make it an excellent match for a wide variety of high-end amplification.

Does the LS-2 include a remote control?

Yes. Every LS-2 includes a premium machined aluminium remote control that allows you to adjust volume, change inputs, mute the system, and access selected functions from your listening position.

Is the DAC or phono module installed from the factory?

The LS-2 can be ordered with either or both optional modules pre-installed, or they can be added later by your authorised Audio Research dealer, providing flexibility as your system evolves.

What makes the LS-2 different from other tube preamplifiers?

The LS-2 combines Audio Research's decades of valve expertise with a minimalist, zero-feedback signal path to deliver exceptional transparency, imaging, and musical realism. Rather than adding warmth or coloration, it faithfully reproduces the recording while preserving the natural character that makes tube electronics so engaging.

Is the LS-2 suitable for high-resolution streaming systems?

Yes. Whether paired with a dedicated network streamer, external DAC, or the optional internal DAC module, the LS-2 is designed to reveal the full detail, dynamics, and musicality of today's highest-quality digital recordings.