Audio Research is one of the most dependable brand names when it comes to high-end audio systems. For years the brand has been recognized by audiophiles throughout the world as equipment that delivers clear and consistent quality in music.

What are the specs for the Audio Research LS12?

Frequency Response:
± 1dB, 0.1Hz to 40kHz at rated output. -3dB points below 0.06Hz and above 70kHz
Distortion:
.01% at 2V RMS Balanced output
Noise & Hum:
40µV RMS residual IHF-A weighted Balanced noise output with gain control at minimum (94dB below 2V RMS output)
Gain:
Main output: 18dB Balanced. 12dB SE. Tape output: 0dB. Processor output: 0dB Balanced.
Input Impedance:
150K ohms Balanced. 75K ohms SE.
Output Impedance:
400 ohms Balanced, 200 ohms SE main, 10K ohms minimum load and 5000pF maximum capacitance.
Output Polarity:
Non inverting
Maximum Inputs:
14V RMS maximum Balanced, (7V RMS SE)
Rated Outputs:
2V RMS (1V RMS SE) into 200K ohm. Balanced load (maximum Balanced output capability is 12V RMS at 1% THD at 1kHz).
Power Supplies:
Electronically regulated low and high voltage supplies. Automatic 45 sec. warmup mute. Automatic brown-out mute.
Power Requirements:
100-135VAC 60Hz (200-270VAC 50/60Hz) 35 watts maximum.
Other:
Inputs (7): AUX SE, PHONO, TUNER, CD BAL, AUX BAL, MONITOR (SE), and PROCESSOR (SE). Outputs (4): 2 Main Bal, 1 Main SE, 1 Record SE. Controls: Volume (104 steps), Input Select. Toggle switches: Power On/Off, Operate/Mute, Monitor/Input, Processor/Input. All functions on Remote Control.
Dimensions:
19" (48 cm) W x 5 ¼" (13.3 cm) H (standard rack panel) x 10½" (26.7 cm) D. Handles extend 1½" (3.8 cm) forward of the front panel.
Weight:
11.5 lbs. (5.2 kg) Net; 21 lbs. (9.5 kg) Shipping.

What else to know about the Audio Research LS12?

Building on our thirty year tradition of designing electronics of the highest quality and value, Audio Research is pleased and very excited to introduce the LS12 stereo preamplifier, which bridges the usual gulf between solid-state and vacuum-tube sound, sonically outperforming the competition anywhere near its retail price. The LS12 represents a major advance in solid-state circuit design in a non-stratospheric price range. Several circuit details and refinements have been implemented for the first time, with many others derived from more expensive siblings. Physically and operationally the LS12 is identical to the LS16, with the same full-sized chassis and array of balanced and single-ended inputs and outputs. The LS12 uses the same microprocessor controls as the LS16 and LS25, including a 104 step volume control and bidirectional spring-loaded switches. There is also a single-ended, unity-gain processor pass-through, allowing the LS12 to be easily incorporated in a home theater system while preserving high quality two-channel music playback. The fully-balanced, double-differential design is pure Class-A, utilizing all-FET circuits with unity-gain buffers between stages and a double-buffered output. Low-noise, critically matched high transconductance JFETs are used for all audio circuits, with local FET constant-current stabilization for each stage. The audio circuit is DC coupled throughout, with servo stabilization for low offset and subsonic control. Full muting protection is included for warmup stabilization and low-line voltage. Total gain is 18 dB balanced output, 12 dB via single-ended outputs. The LS12's advanced-design power supplies use soft recovery rectifiers, highest grade "Muse" filter capacitors with our patented DEC (Decoupled Electrolytic Capacitor®) choke-decoupling, and a total of seven regulators. Mechanical vibration is carefully controlled with special Isodamp mounting for the power transformer and its own circuit board. Isodamp feet are used for the chassis. Like other Audio Research preamps, the LS12 has a removable IEC power cord, and it comes with the same remote control as the one supplied with the LS16. All you really have to do is listen to the LS12 to appreciate what an outstanding value it provides. The LS12's sonics are remarkable from top to bottom, with startling transparency, resolution, dynamics and bass impact, speed, and control. The only blurring is the line between tube and solid-state sound: the LS12 presents soundstaging and "air" at which other solid-state preamps only hint. \[From the ARC website]

Brief History of Audio Research

Other Audio Research Products We Often Buy

Typically, StereoBuyers purchases mostly used amplifiers, especially the vintage amps and high-end Audio Research models.

StereoBuyers has purchased tens of thousands worth Audio Research brand equipment since 2014, with individual buys ranging from $100 to well over $50,000. If you are moving, ready to upgrade, or have Audio Research equipment you do not or will not be using, why not contact us today to find out if it is worth good money?

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The following images show actual Audio Research equipment purchased by StereoBuyers.