BRAND: Audio Research
SERIES: Reference 20
TYPE: Line-Stage Preamplifier
OVERVIEW
The Audio Research Reference 20 is a flagship line-stage preamplifier created to redefine the limits of preamplifier performance. Developed without constraint, its mechanical structure, electrical design and material selection have all been reconsidered in pursuit of exceptional sonic transparency.
More than an evolution of an earlier design, the Reference 20 introduces an entirely new platform engineered to preserve the finest musical information. It delivers remarkable dimensionality, tonal integrity, timing coherence and dynamic expression, revealing both the structure of a recording and the presence of the original performance.
Key Features
- Flagship line-stage preamplifier built on an entirely new platform
- Multi-metal layered chassis engineered to control resonant energy
- Custom suspended, mass-loaded circuit boards
- Redesigned power supply with advanced regulation
- Next-generation film capacitors
- Significantly reduced noise across the regulated power rails
- Four balanced and four single-ended inputs
- Two pairs each of balanced and single-ended main outputs
- Dedicated buffered subwoofer output
- Six 6H30P dual triodes in the audio circuit
- 6550 and 6H30 tubes in the power supply
- Processor mode, balance adjustment, mono and mute functions
- Customisable input names and display colour themes
- Three display brightness levels plus display-off mode
- Firmware update capability through the rear USB service port
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New Mechanical Architecture
The conventional stamped chassis has been replaced by a sophisticated multi-metal layered construction engineered to disperse and control resonant energy. Critical circuits are mounted on custom suspended, mass-loaded boards to further isolate the signal path from mechanical influence.
By addressing resonance throughout the structure, the Reference 20 preserves low-level information and spatial detail with exceptional focus and articulation.
Power, Harnessed
The comprehensively redesigned power supply combines advanced regulation with next-generation film capacitors, reducing noise across the regulated power rails by an order of magnitude. This dramatically lower noise floor allows subtle musical information to emerge with greater clarity while preserving composure through demanding dynamic passages.
Despite its single-chassis design, the Reference 20 surpasses its two-chassis predecessor, delivering outstanding authority, impact and resolution without sacrificing tonal body or musical flow.
Transformational Performance
The Reference 20 delivers remarkable dimensionality, tonal integrity, timing coherence and dynamic expression. Its revealing yet natural presentation conveys not only the structure of a recording, but also the intent, scale and presence of the performance itself.
The Presence of the Performance
The Reference 20 draws the listener closer to the heart of every performance. Instruments and voices emerge with lifelike scale, natural weight and clearly defined placement, creating a soundstage that feels open, immersive and convincingly real.
Subtle phrasing, delicate textures and the atmosphere surrounding each note are presented with remarkable ease. Whether reproducing an intimate vocal recording or the scale and complexity of a full orchestra, the Reference 20 preserves the individuality of each performer while allowing the music to unfold as one coherent and emotionally engaging whole.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Frequency Response:
1.5Hz to 24kHz at -1dB, 120kHz at -3dB
THD+Noise:
0.07% Balanced,
0.03% Single Ended
Gain – Main output:
15dB Balanced output, 9dB Single Ended output
Input Impedance:
50K ohms Balanced, 25K ohms Single Ended
Output Impedance:
600 ohms Balanced, 300 ohms Single Ended Main Out
200 ohms Balanced, 100 ohms Single Ended Sub Out
Output Polarity:
Non-inverting
Tube Complement:
(6)-6H30P dual triodes Audio, (1) 6550 and (1) 6H30 Power supply
Power Requirements:
100-135VAC 60Hz (200-250VAC 50/60Hz) 147 watts maximum.
Standby: 4.3 watts.
Dimensions:
Width 19” (48.26 cm)
Height 8 1/8” (20.64 cm)
Depth 19 1/16” (48.42 cm) including handles and rear bumpers
Weight:
62.5 lbs. (28.35 kg) Net; 78 lbs. (35.38 kg) Shipping.
