Audio Research REF160M
Monoblock tube power amplifier from Audio Research, fitted with four KT150 valves and automatic bias, for enthusiasts of demanding tube electronics.
Description
The REF160M is a monoblock tube power amplifier designed by Audio Research. It operates in switchable ultralinear/triode mode and is typically used in pairs, with one monoblock dedicated to each channel, to build a high-end power stage.
It houses four KT150 output valves and two 6H30 driver tubes, paired with a proprietary automatic bias circuit that continuously adjusts the bias of the output tubes and tracks their wear, including when using 6550, KT88 or KT120 valves. A built-in wattmeter, the GhostMeter, overlays engraved markings on a double-layer construction that lets you see the glow of the tubes in operation. The rated power is 140 Watts RMS, with a frequency response of 0.5 Hz to 110 kHz, a rise time of 2.0 microseconds and a slew rate of 13 volts per microsecond; the amplifier accepts a balanced input of 200 k ohms and offers 16, 8 and 4 ohm outputs.
This monoblock is aimed at high-end systems built around tube preamplifiers, where the user is looking for tube electronics capable of driving demanding speakers with pronounced dynamics and bass depth, within a system already conceived for this level of performance.
Technical specifications
| Power | 140 Watts RMS |
| Frequency response | 0.5 Hz to 110 kHz |
| Input sensitivity | 2.4 V RMS balanced for nominal output |
| Input impedance | 200 k ohms balanced |
| Output polarity | Non-inverting, balanced input pin 2+ (IEC-268) |
| Output impedance | 16 ohms, 8 ohms, 4 ohms |
| Slew rate | 13 volts/microsecond |
| Rise time | 2.0 microseconds |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 25.4 x 43.8 x 47 cm |
| Weight | 25.5 kg |
What to check before buying used
On a monoblock tube amplifier of this power, the condition of the four KT150 valves and the two 6H30 tubes deserves a priority check, as does the correct functioning of the automatic bias circuit intended to maintain their setting without intervention. It is also worth checking for the absence of noise, hum or microphony on start-up, as well as the operation of the GhostMeter wattmeter and the cooling fan built into the cover. The number of hours accumulated by the current set of valves remains a point to ask about before purchase, as their replacement affects the stated performance.
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