LS9 vs LS15
The LS15's signal-to-noise is 98 dB against the LS9's 100 dB, its thd 0.010% against 0.005%, and its weight 5.3 kg (12 lbs) against 5 kg (11 lbs). Both share output voltage (2.0V RMS).
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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The Audio Research LS9 is an all-solid-state line level preamplifier introduced in 1996 as a replacement for the LS3/3B series. It features a low-voltage, pure Class A gain circuit with direct-coupled output, meaning no coupling capacitors are used in the signal path. The LS9 provides 12dB of overall gain, factory adjustable to 18dB if necessary, and a substantial output capability of 24V RMS from the balanced main outputs. It includes complete IR remote control of all front panel functions, including a 70-step electronic relay volume attenuator and input selection. The preamplifier offers two pairs of dedicated balanced inputs, three pairs of dedicated single-ended inputs, and a full tape monitor loop (single-ended in and out). It is well-regarded for its transparency, strong balanced section, and good build quality. The unit measures 480 x 89 x 280 mm, weighs 5 kg, and comes with a remote control. The LS9 was manufactured from 1996 to 1998 and is now discontinued.
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The LS15's signal-to-noise is 98 dB against the LS9's 100 dB, its thd 0.010% against 0.005%, and its weight 5.3 kg (12 lbs) against 5 kg (11 lbs). Both share output voltage (2.0V RMS).
The SP17's signal-to-noise is 76 dB against the LS9's 100 dB and its weight 5.7 kg (13 lbs) against 5 kg (11 lbs). Both share thd (0.005%) and output voltage (2.0V RMS).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
The LS7's signal-to-noise is 102 dB against the LS9's 100 dB, its thd 0.010% against 0.005%, and its weight 4.5 kg (10 lbs) against 5 kg (11 lbs). Both share output voltage (2.0V RMS).
The Line 2's signal-to-noise is 93 dB against the LS9's 100 dB, its thd 0.010% against 0.005%, and its width 483 mm against 480 mm. Both share output voltage (2.0V RMS).
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