LS7 vs SP8 MkII
The SP8 MkII's power @ 8ω is 60W against the LS7's 2W and its output impedance 1000Ω against 200Ω. Both share thd (0.010%) and output voltage (2.0V RMS).
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The Audio Research LS-7 is a tube-based stereo line preamplifier introduced around 1994-1995, featuring four 6922/E88cc dual triode tubes. It offers a frequency response from 1Hz to 100kHz with less than 0.01% total harmonic distortion at 2V RMS output, and a gain of 13dB on the main output. The preamplifier is designed with electronically-regulated low and high voltage supplies, ensuring line regulation better than 0.01%. It includes five inputs (tape, tuner, CD, video, aux) and outputs for tape and main line, with recommended load impedance of 60K ohms. The LS-7 is praised for its dynamic bass, detailed midrange and treble, and a spacious 3D soundstage that places instruments and vocals with clarity and rhythm. It is a straightforward, no-frills unit with only input selection and volume controls, and a sleek minimalist design. The unit weighs approximately 9.8 lbs (4.5 kg) net and measures 19" W x 5.25" H x 10.25" D. It requires 25 watts of power and supports 100-135VAC 60Hz or 200-270VAC 50/60Hz operation. The LS-7 is highly regarded as an affordable yet high-quality tube preamplifier that delivers soulful and musical sound reproduction, suitable for audiophiles seeking natural and engaging audio performance.
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)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
Components that show up alongside the LS7 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 SP8 MkII's power @ 8ω is 60W against the LS7's 2W and its output impedance 1000Ω against 200Ω. Both share thd (0.010%) and output voltage (2.0V RMS).
The EX P-7 P (Middle)'s signal-to-noise is 90 dB against the LS7's 102 dB, its thd 0.003% against 0.010%, its output voltage 2.3V RMS against 2.0V RMS, and its output impedance 75Ω against 200Ω.
The LS9's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the LS7's 102 dB, its thd 0.005% against 0.010%, and its weight 5 kg (11 lbs) against 4.5 kg (10 lbs). Both share output voltage (2.0V RMS).
The Line 2's signal-to-noise is 93 dB against the LS7's 102 dB and its output impedance 121Ω against 200Ω. Both share thd (0.010%) and output voltage (2.0V RMS).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
LS16
Balanced Audio Technology VK-50SE
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