Audio Research Reference 7 Line-Stage Preamplifier

Reference 20-derived architecture, a new multi-metal chassis, and solid-state regulation bring Audio Research’s latest Reference platform to a single-chassis line stage

The Reference 7 represents a new generation of Audio Research line-stage preamplifiers. Rather than evolving the previous Reference 6SE, it was developed from the same ground-up platform that produced the flagship Reference 20, bringing key elements of that design into a more compact single-chassis component.

Audio Research positions the Reference 7 directly below the Reference 20 and says its new architecture advances performance beyond the company’s previous flagship preamplifier. Its design centers on mechanical isolation, lower noise, and careful control of resonance, with two 6H30P dual triodes providing the active tube complement.

Reference 20-Derived Mechanical Architecture

The Reference 7 shares the fundamental mechanical architecture developed for the Reference 20. Its layered, multi-metal chassis is designed to manage resonance through controlled energy distribution, while suspended, mass-loaded circuit boards further isolate the circuitry from unwanted mechanical energy.

These measures are intended to protect the integrity of the signal path rather than simply adding mass to the enclosure. The result is a substantially different physical platform from the preceding generation of Audio Research Reference preamplifiers.

Lower-Noise Power Regulation

Audio Research redesigned the Reference 7 power supply with an emphasis on reducing the noise floor and improving long-term stability. Solid-state regulation replaces the previous approach, combining low-noise operation with increased reliability.

Reference-grade output coupling capacitors derived from the Reference 20 are also incorporated into the signal path. Audio Research says the combination of the new mechanical platform, power regulation, and selected components allows the Reference 7 to increase resolution while retaining the texture and musical coherence expected from a Reference-series line stage.

Features

• Single-chassis Reference-series line-stage preamplifier
• Derived from the ground-up development platform of the flagship Reference 20
• Layered, multi-metal chassis engineered to manage mechanical resonance
• Suspended, mass-loaded circuit boards for additional circuit isolation
• Solid-state power-supply regulation designed for low noise and long-term stability
• Reference-grade output coupling capacitors derived from the Reference 20 design
• Two 6H30P dual-triode tubes
• 12 dB gain from both balanced and single-ended main outputs
• Balanced and single-ended connectivity

Specifications

Tube Complement: (2) 6H30P dual triodes

Frequency Response (At Rated Output, Balanced, 100 kΩ Load): -0.3 dB at 10 Hz, -0.3 dB at 40 kHz

THD + Noise (2 V RMS Balanced Output, 10 Hz–80 kHz, Unweighted): <0.03%

Main Output Gain: 12 dB balanced, 12 dB single-ended

Input Impedance: 25 kΩ balanced, 25 kΩ single-ended

Output Impedance: 600 Ω balanced, 375 Ω single-ended

Crosstalk (1 kHz): -76 dB or better

Power Requirements (US): 100–135 V AC, 60 Hz, 60 W maximum

Standby Power Consumption: 4.4 W

Dimensions (W × H × D): 19" x 7" x 17.5" (483 x 178 x 445 mm), including knobs and rear bumpers

Weight: 33 lb. (15 kg)