Reference 160S Power Amplifier By Audio Research

The Audio Research Reference 160S stereo power amplifier brings the acclaimed performance and design philosophy of the celebrated REF160M monoblock into a single, elegant chassis. Engineered for serious music enthusiasts, it delivers exceptional resolution, dynamic authority, and refined musicality in a more accessible stereo configuration.

Its striking appearance is highlighted by dual GhostMeter™ displays positioned in front of eight KT150 output tubes, creating a distinctive visual centerpiece for any high-end audio system. The amplifier also incorporates advanced features such as proprietary auto-bias technology, selectable Triode and Ultralinear operating modes, balanced and single-ended inputs, and integrated output tube monitoring for enhanced reliability and flexibility.

A sophisticated four-layer circuit board design helps maintain an ultra-quiet background, allowing music to emerge with remarkable clarity, depth, and detail. Powerful yet refined, the Reference 160S delivers impressive dynamics, rich tonal character, and precise imaging across a wide range of musical genres.

Weighing approximately 100 lbs., the Reference 160S combines premium craftsmanship, advanced tube amplification technology, and stunning aesthetics into a high-performance stereo amplifier built for immersive listening experiences.

Stereophile
“After initial adjustment and warm-up, the system settled into a highly engaging performance. The Audio Research Reference 6 and Reference 160S combination delivered exceptional musicality, blending accurate detail with rich tonal beauty, lifelike dynamics, and a vivid, emotionally immersive listening experience.”

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

• 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:
  300k 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:
  105–130VAC 60Hz (210–250VAC 50Hz), 875 watts at rated output,
  700 watts in Triode mode, 500 watts at idle, 3.6 watts off
• Tubes Required:
  • 4 matched pair KT150 (Power output V1–V4)
  • 4 6H30 (Gain stage V5 and V6)
• Dimensions:
  • Width: 19.0″ (48.6 cm)
  • Height: 10.25″ (26 cm)
  • Depth: 21.5″ (54.61 cm)
  • With Handles and Connectors: 24″ (60.96 cm)
• Weight:
  100 lbs