Audio Research REF160M | Built Like No Other
Built like no other. Looks like no other. Sounds like no other. Yet unmistakably Audio Research.
Some of the defining features of the REF160M include a refined audio topology with fewer components in the signal-path, switchable Ultralinear/Triode operation, proprietary auto-bias, output tube monitoring and protection, and an advanced power meter. All of these features culminate in a better, more reliable, and user-friendly amplifier that is a revolution to the brand.
The most iconic design innovation in the new REF 160M is its transparent faceplate, which invites a view of the glowing KT150 vacuum tubes. This remarkable new faceplate incorporates an innovative dual-layer construction with distinctive etched markings that create an integrated power meter display, while also allowing you to see past the meters to the glowing tubes behind - resulting in a dramatic presentation. The power meter's output-level markings illuminate via hidden LEDs, and the illumination brightness is adjustable.
Livio Cucuzza, the creative genius responsible for Audio Research’s new aesthetic, comments, “The new REF160M is the apex of the Audio Research design language, and the first step in a new era of products. With its transparent meter, we are giving shape to the most renowned Audio Research sound characteristic: transparency. As an enthusiast and Audio Research customer, I can say that REF160M is the coolest tube amplifier on the planet!”
The REF160M includes a sculpted cover with an integrated fan to cool the heat generated by the four (4) KT150 output tubes and two (2) 6H30 driver tubes. Solid-state power regulation was chosen to provide increased efficiency, stability, and reliability. The power supply stage uses a newly developed High Energy Capacity Transformer and a hefty bulk storage-capacity network to provide extremely high current on demand for transient peaks and intense dynamics, as well as for prodigious bass depth and authority.
The REF160M also features a proprietary auto-bias circuit that works with various tubes types, including 6550, KT88, and KT120, in addition to the supplied KT150 and works constantly to maintain precise bias of the output tubes, while also adjusting for tube wear. There is no need to check or adjust bias ever again. A built-in tube hour meter allows the owner to monitor tube usage, while the amp’s tube protection circuit features separate high-quality fuses for each output tube and are located inside the amp for replacement, if ever necessary. The REF160M tube status indicators on the front panel will indicate if a fuse is blown, and which one.
Some music lovers prefer or require a tube amp that provides higher power and operates in Ultralinear mode, while others (usually with high efficiency loudspeakers or those who listen at lower levels) prefer Triode operation, which produces less power. The REF160M is the first amplifier from Audio Research to directly address these varying needs by providing a front panel switch to allow the user to select the preferred mode of operation. The REF160M will provide a conservatively rated 150 Watts in Ultralinear mode and 75 Watts in Triode mode.
Designed to not only meet the demands for the absolute highest sound quality, convenience, reliability, and worry-free operation, the REF160M is Audio Research’s first Reference-series amplifier to include single-ended (RCA) inputs in addition to balanced (XLR) inputs so that it can connect easily in any system. The amp also has a RS-232 input and 12V trigger to allow the REF160M to be powered-on remotely.
As much emphasis is placed on its new flexibility and features, the REF160M exists to advance the love and understanding of reproduced music. Hearing it for the first time is a startling and energizing musical experience. As Warren Gehl (Audio Research’s aural evaluator) stated, “The REF160M elicits the most compelling musical realism of any Audio Research amplifier to date”.
Contact us today to experience the REF160M in-store during a private audition!
