Audio Research LS-17

The LS17 was a fixture in the Audio Research line for years. It has the
signature AR resolution presented with the richness of tubes. See the numerous
reviews online; they all tell the same story. It has always performed
perfectly. I have the original box and remote.

From Audio Research:

With the REF3 redefining what is possible in ultimate preamplifier
performance and the LS26 creating a new performance benchmark in a slightly
smaller package, we are very proud to introduce the LS17, a new preamplifier offering
much of their performance and musicality in a more affordable package.

The new LS17 retains the strong feature set of the previous LS16 series,
offering two balanced and five single-ended inputs, and two balanced and one
single-ended output. A monitor input and record output are also provided.

On the front panel, the changes are more obvious. A new linear LED display
provides a 20-lamp display for the 104-step volume control, as well as
indicators for selected input and muting. One rotary control is provided for
volume adjustment, while a second controls input select. Pushbuttons are
provided for power, monitor, processor (unity gain) and mute. All functions are
also accessible via the included handheld remote. For systems using a master
controller, all LS17 functions are individually addressable by discrete codes.
Handles are included as part of the standard LS17 package.

But it is in the LS17's remarkable new level of performance that you will
experience the biggest difference from its predecessor. Using two 6H30 twin
triodes in the audio stage, the LS17 has a larger power transformer, redesigned
power supply and new parts including proprietary output coupling caps. This
gives the LS17 the stunning purity of sound first heard in the REF3 and in the
more recent LS26. The family resemblance is undeniable, and convincing. The
LS17 has an easy flow to its presentation, but it resolves musical and spatial
information at a much higher level than the LS16 series was ever capable of.
Instrument focus, soundstage clarity and bass definition are all vividly
enhanced. Members of our listening panel agree that if the LS26 is the
"REF3 Jr.," then the LS17 is surely the "Baby REF3." The
pedigree is only too clear, and you will hear it immediately and without
effort.

With the introduction of the LS17, Audio Research now offers benchmarks in
preamplifier quality, performance and value at three distinct price points. Our
lineup has never been stronger. Hear for yourself how an LS17 can transform
your system and make music much more enjoyable.

 

 

Specifications

Frequency response

+0-3dB,
0.5Hz to 160kHz at rated output (Balanced, 200k ohms load)

Distortion (THD)

Less
than .01% at 2V RMS BAL output.

Noise & hum

LS17:
2.2uV RMS residual IHF weighted balanced equivalent input noise with volume
at 1 (101 dB below 2V RMS output).

LS17SE: 1.7uV RMS residual IHF weighted balanced equivalent input noise with
volume at 1 (109dB below 2V RMS output.)

Gain

LS17:
Main output: 18dB Balanced output (12dB SE output).

LS17SE: Main output: 12dB Balanced output (6dB SE output).

 

Record
output: 0dB (Processor input: 0dB SE).

Input impedance

120K
ohms Balanced, 60K ohms SE.

Output impedance

LS17:
700 ohms Balanced, 350 ohms SE Main.

LS17SE: 600 ohms Balanced, 300 ohms SE Main.

20K ohms minimum load and 2000pF maximum capacitance.

Output polarity

Non-inverting.

Maximum inputs

LS17:
24V RMS BAL.

LS17SE: 20V RMS BAL.

 

LS17:
12V RMS SE.

LS17SE: 10V RMS SE.

Rated outputs

LS17:
2V RMS 1Hz to 100kHz into 200K ohm balanced load (maximum balanced output
capability is 15V RMS at less than 0.5% THD at 1kHz)

LS17SE: 2V RMS (1V RMS SE) into 200K ohm balanced load (maximum balanced
output capability is 30V RMS at less than 0.5% THD at 1kHz).

Power supplies

Electronically
regulated low and high voltage supplies. Line regulation better than .01%.

LS17: Automatic 50 sec. warm-up/brown-out mute.

LS17SE: Automatic 40 sec. warm-up/brown-out mute.

Tube complement

(2)
6H30 dual triode. (Hybrid JFET/tube audio circuit, solid-state power supply).

Power requirements

LS17:
105-130VAC 60Hz (210-260VAC 50/60Hz) 50 watts maximum.

LS17SE: 100-135VAC 60Hz (200-270VAC 50/60Hz) 130 watts. Standby: 2 watts.

Other

Rotary
volume selector (104 steps, 20 LED indicators) and rotary input selector.

Push buttons: Power, Monitor, Proc, Mute. Also remote buttons: Bal 1, Bal 2,
Aux, Tuner, CD.

Dimensions

LS17:
19" (48 cm) W x 5.25"(13.4 cm) H (standard rack panel) x
12"(30.5 cm) D.

LS17SE: 19" (48 cm) W x 7" (17.8 cm) H (standard panel) x
15.5" (39.4 cm) D.

Handles extend 1.5" (3.8 cm) forward of the front panel.

Weight

LS17:
13 lbs. (5.9 kg) Net; 23 lbs. (11.5 kg) Shipping.

LS17SE: 30.4 lbs. (13.9 kg) Net; 41.6 lbs. (19 kg) Shipping.