LS5 MkI vs Cary Audio Design SLP-98
The SLP-98's output impedance is 440Ω against the LS5 MkI's 400Ω and its weight 10 kg (22 lbs) against 8.6 kg (19 lbs). Both share power @ 8ω (2W) and output voltage (2.0V RMS).
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The Audio Research Corporation LS5 MkI, introduced in 1993, is the initial version of the renowned LS5 series of fully balanced tube line-stage preamplifiers. It set the foundation for subsequent MkII and MkIII models with significant redesigns. Known for its transparency, rich tube sound, and excellent three-dimensional imaging, the LS5 MkI uses vacuum tube audio circuits with a solid-state power supply. It requires an optional BL2 input controller ( ) for single-ended (RCA) inputs as it primarily supports balanced XLR connections. The MkI version features a more populated PCB compared to the redesigned MkII, which moved to open-loop circuits and different tube complement. Original It is highly regarded by audiophiles for its musicality, though the MkII addressed some microphony issues with 12BH7 tubes by switching to 6922 types.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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Components that show up alongside the LS5 MkI in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The SLP-98's output impedance is 440Ω against the LS5 MkI's 400Ω and its weight 10 kg (22 lbs) against 8.6 kg (19 lbs). Both share power @ 8ω (2W) and output voltage (2.0V RMS).
The RP5 v2's power @ 8ω is 1W against the LS5 MkI's 2W, its thd 0.100% against 0.010%, its output voltage 1.0V RMS against 2.0V RMS, and its output impedance 100Ω against 400Ω.
The ATC-2's output impedance is 200Ω against the LS5 MkI's 400Ω and its weight 12 kg (26 lbs) against 8.6 kg (19 lbs). Both share thd (0.010%) and output voltage (2.0V RMS).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
The Line 3's output voltage is 1.0V RMS against the LS5 MkI's 2.0V RMS and its weight 27.5 kg (61 lbs) against 8.6 kg (19 lbs). Both share thd (0.010%) and width (480 mm).
McIntosh C2200
McIntosh C2300
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