LS17

About the LS17

The LS17 line stage preamplifier from Audio Research delivers remarkable sound purity and musicality, utilizing two 6H30 twin triode tubes in its hybrid JFET/tube audio stage. It features a redesigned power supply with a larger power transformer and proprietary output coupling capacitors, resulting in enhanced instrument focus, soundstage clarity, and bass definition. The preamplifier offers two balanced and five single-ended inputs, plus two balanced and one single-ended output, along with monitor input and record output. Controls include a 104-step volume control with a 20-lamp linear LED display, input selection, mute, and processor loop, all accessible via front panel and remote control. The LS17 is fully balanced with 18dB gain on balanced outputs and 12dB on single-ended, and it employs electronically regulated low and high voltage power supplies with automatic warm-up mute to prevent power-on thumps. Its sonic character is natural and unforced, delivering exquisite detail and dynamic range without sacrificing listenability, making it a strong value proposition in high-end audio.