AUDIO RESEARCH Reference 160M MKII. Monophonic 140W power amplifier. 2 pairs KT150. XLR input.

Billed by its creators as the first truly revolutionary power amplifier in their Reference series, the Reference 160M incorporated such significant elements as a new four-layer printed circuit board, a unique and innovative automatic tube biasing system, output tube monitoring and protection, ultra-linear/triode selectable operation, a sophisticated high-energy power transformer, new single-ended inputs, and a completely redesigned aesthetic equipped with the iconic GhostMeter vumeters. Despite being launched in 2018, the Reference 160M continues to receive accolades from the specialist press around the world for its exceptional musicality. Nevertheless, the progress made by Audio Research in the development of models such as the Reference 160S and Reference 80S, soon to be joined by the Reference 320M, has justified an update in the form of the Reference M160 MkII. To this end, the base design, critical components and internal wiring have been changed, all of which are improvements that can be fitted to the original model units. The result is an even clearer sound across the entire audio spectrum, even faster transient response, more vibrant dynamic contrasts and unprecedentedly robust bass, all qualities that bring a superior sense of propulsion and movement to the music.

Technical Features:

Absolute reference monophonic tube power amplifier.

Enhanced version of the Reference 160M with new components and cables.

Upgrade from the Reference 160M to the Reference M160 MkII possible.

Equipped with 4 KT150 output tubes and 2 6H30 attack tubes.

Also compatible with 6550, KT88 and KT120 power tubes.

Transistorised control circuitry.

Audio Research's exclusive GhostMeter front-firing analogue VU meter.

Automatic output tube biasing circuit.

Ultralinear and Triode operating modes selectable.

Power of 150 W RMS in Ultralinear mode and 75 W RMS in Triode mode.

Frequency response from 5-70,000 Hz (-3 dB cut-off points).

Overall negative feedback rate of 14 dB.

Rise time of 2 microseconds.

"Slew Rate of 13 V/us.

Balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) signal input.

RS-232 input and 12 V trigger signal socket.

Dimensions: 438x254x457 mm (W x H x D).

Net weight: 25.5 kg.