Audio Research Reference 160M MKII Mono Amplifier

The Reference 160M MkII Monoblock Power Amplifier is a central pillar in the Audio Research range of Reference Amplifiers. It features a refined audio topology with fewer and better components in the signal-path than in previous designs, switchable Ultralinear/Triode operation, proprietary auto-bias, output tube monitoring and protection, and much more. This array of features has never been offered before in an Audio Research amplifier, but has now been adopted across the product range. Key design elements While the trademark GhostMeter™ serves as a window to the output tubes, it also incorporates an innovative power output meter with distinctively etched markings that create an integrated display with adjustable brightness. Four KT150 output tubes and two 6H30 driver tubes form the core of the audio circuit. The power supply stage uses a newly developed High Energy Capacity Transformer and a hefty bulk storage-capacity network to provide extremely high current on demand for transient peaks and intense dynamics, as well as for prodigious bass depth and authority. Shortest signal path It is understood that the best path is the shortest path. A 4-layer circuit board serves as the platform of the ultra-high grade and custom-made components that comprise this short but potent audio pathway. The result is a new benchmark in musicality in every criterion of performance.   REF160M MkII also features a proprietary auto-bias circuit that works with various tubes types, including 6550, KT88, and KT120, in addition to the supplied KT150 and works constantly to maintain precise bias of the output tubes, while also adjusting for tube wear. There is no need to check or adjust bias ever again. The new REF 160M MkII breaks new ground sonically, aesthetically and operationally, and is available in Natural (Silver) or Black finishes. REF 160M MkII SYSTEM TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Power Output 140 watts continuous from 20Hz to 20kHz. 1kHz total harmonic distortion typically 1% at 140 watts, below 0.04% at 1 watt. (Note that actual power output is dependent upon both line voltage and “condition” i.e.: if power line has high distortion, maximum power will be affected adversely, although from a listening standpoint this is not critical) Power Bandwidth (-3dB Points) 5Hz to 70kHz Frequency Response (-3dB points at 1 watt) 0.5Hz to 110kHz Input Sensitivity 2.4V RMS Balanced for rated output. (25.5 dB gain into 8 ohms) Input Impedance 200k ohms Balanced; 100k ohms Single-ended Output Polarity Non-inverting. Balanced input pin 2+ (IEC-268) Output Taps 4, 8, 16 ohms Output Regulation Approximately 0.6dB 16 OHM LOAD TO OPEN CIRCUIT (Damping factor approximately 14) Overall Negative Feedback 14dB Slew Rate 13 volts/microsecond Rise Time 2.0 microseconds Power Requirements per Monoblock 105-130VAC 60Hz (210-250VAC 50Hz) 400 watts at rated output, 700 watts maximum, 260 watts at “idle”, 1 watt off. Tubes Required per Monoblock 2 matched pair KT150 (Power output V1-4); 4 6H30 (Gain stage V5 and V6) Dimensions Width 17.25” (43.8 cm) Height 10” (25.4 cm) Depth 18.5” (47 cm) Handles Extended 19.25” (48.9 cm) Weight per Monoblock 56lbs (25.5 kg) Net 73lbs (33.2 kg) Shipping