Reference 160M MkII Monoblock Power Amplifiers By Audio Research

The Audio Research Reference 160M MkII monoblock power amplifier combines advanced vacuum tube engineering with refined design to deliver exceptional musical performance and operational convenience. As part of Audio Research’s acclaimed Reference Series, it offers a sophisticated balance of power, precision, and tube warmth for demanding high-end audio systems.

The amplifier features an optimized signal path using fewer, higher-grade components for greater purity and transparency. Switchable Ultralinear and Triode modes allow listeners to tailor the presentation to their preferences, while proprietary auto-bias technology continuously maintains ideal tube performance without the need for manual adjustments.

At the heart of the design are four KT150 output tubes paired with two 6H30 driver tubes, delivering dynamic, authoritative sound with impressive clarity and tonal richness. A newly developed High Energy Capacity Transformer and substantial power supply reserve provide outstanding current delivery for impactful bass, effortless dynamics, and excellent control during demanding musical passages.

The signature GhostMeter™ front display not only showcases the output tubes but also integrates a distinctive power output meter with adjustable illumination for a modern, elegant appearance.

Built with premium custom components and a precision 4-layer circuit board layout, the Reference 160M MkII is engineered for audiophiles seeking a powerful, visually striking, and highly musical tube amplifier. Available in Natural (Silver) or Black finishes.

Stereophile
“all the power amplifiers, integrated amplifiers, and pre-power combinations to have spent time in my reference system, the pairing of Audio Research’s tubed Reference 160M monoblocks and REF 6 preamplifier stands out as having sounded the most musically neutral and natural. Other components may offer more warmth and glow, or wider soundstages, or greater dynamic contrast, or more bass slam, transparency, and detail—but there was an inherent rightness to the sound of this supremely musical ARC pairing that puts it in a class by itself. “

https://www.stereophile.com/content/audio-research-reference-160m-monoblock-power-amplifier

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.
• 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:
  • 56 lbs (25.5 kg) Net
  • 73 lbs (33.2 kg) Shipping