Preamplifiers — Audio Research LS28SE

The LS28SE is a preamplifier from Audio Research, built with rich balanced and single-ended connectivity and an exceptionally wide rated bandwidth. This model represents Audio Research's serious current preamplifier offering, extending the brand's characteristic tube-based engineering philosophy into a comprehensive connectivity package.

Position in line

It sits alongside the Reference 6SE Line-Stage and Reference 10 in Audio Research's preamplifier hierarchy. This positioning alongside the Reference 6SE and Reference 10 places the LS28SE within a broader family of Audio Research preamplifiers, each likely differentiated by specific tube complement and refinement level.

Key specs that matter

Four balanced and four single-ended inputs are provided, with three balanced and two single-ended outputs, a rich connectivity set. Gain is 18.5 dBu. Input impedance is 100,000 ohms balanced and 50,000 ohms single-ended. Output impedance is 600 ohms balanced and 300 ohms single-ended. Rated bandwidth is an extraordinary 0.4 Hz to 200 000 Hz. Distortion is under 0.007%. At 480 x 137 x 348 mm and 7.2 kg it is a compact chassis relative to its rich connectivity and tube-based construction.

Sound and use context

Expect an extremely wide-bandwidth presentation with rich connectivity - a reference-level performer built to accommodate an extensive multi-source system, reflecting Audio Research's characteristic tube-based engineering ambition applied to preamplification.

Pairing

The rich set of balanced and single-ended inputs and outputs covers an extensive multi-source, multi-output system, accommodating essentially any conceivable source and amplifier combination a serious system might require.

Alternatives

Audio Research's Reference 6SE Line-Stage and Reference 10 sit alongside this model in the brand's preamplifier hierarchy, worth comparing directly with a specialist dealer given the considerable investment either option within Audio Research's flagship-adjacent catalogue represents. Audio Research extensive dealer network makes arranging a direct comparison against both the Reference 6SE and Reference 10 practical, helping clarify exactly which tier best suits a specific system and budget. Tube replacement and periodic biasing should be factored into the long-term ownership costs of any design of this kind. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare current pricing.