Audio Research LS28 SE

The LS28 SE is a line preamplifier from Audio Research, designed to occupy a central place in a high-fidelity system. It handles source selection and level matching before sending the signal to one or more amplifiers, with particular attention paid to installation flexibility and day-to-day ease of use.

Its connectivity is particularly extensive: four balanced inputs and four unbalanced inputs, paired with two sets of balanced outputs and two sets of unbalanced outputs. This wealth of XLR and RCA connections allows several sources to be connected simultaneously and enables control of two amplifiers or two listening zones without any compromise on cabling. The analogue circuit is built around four 6H30 tubes, responsible for the sonic colouration characteristic of this type of tube stage.

The configuration menu, described as easy to access, allows inputs to be named, tube usage hours to be tracked, an automatic standby to be programmed, or a transit mode to be activated for a home cinema system. Phase inversion and mono mode are also among the functions available as standard.

The LS28 SE is aimed at audiophiles who already have a demanding setup, particularly those seeking a tube preamplifier capable of working equally well with Audio Research amplifiers or with most amplifiers on the market. Its dual balanced and unbalanced outputs make it a sound choice for bi-amplified or multi-room configurations.